Judge Advocate Officer—JAG (Attorney)

The pursuit of justice is at the center of every Air Force objective. So the rights of Airmen are naturally held in the highest regard and are defended and supported by top legal minds like Air Force Judge Advocates (JAGs). These highly trained attorneys handle a wide variety of legal issues including international law, operations law, environmental law and military and civilian personnel issues. From trial preparation to posttrial actions, they provide important legal counsel every step of the way.

Relevant Interests and Skills

  • Law Enforcement

Career Tasks

  1. Formulate legal policies.
  2. Monitor, coordinate and direct legal activities.
  3. Prepare legal advice and opinions.
  4. Represent the United States in civil proceedings.
  5. Act as trial counsel, defense counsel or military judge as needed.
  6. Instruct personnel in military justice procedures and legal issues.

Service Commitment A Duty and an Honor

After completing all Air Force ROTC and academic degree requirements, cadets accept a commission as second lieutenants in the Air Force or Space Force, appointed by the President of the United States. The length of your initial service commitment depends on your career. Most officers have a four-year, active-duty service commitment. Pilots have a 10-year, active-duty service commitment, and both Combat System Officers and Air Battle Managers have a six-year service commitment upon completion of their respective training. Nursing graduates accept a commission in the Air Force Nurse Corps and serve four years on active duty after completing their licensing examination.

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