Marine Corps Knowledge Practice 2025 - Free Marine Corps Practice Questions and Study Guide

The three types of court-martial in the U.S. military are summary, special, and general courts-martial. Each type has a distinct purpose and procedure based on the severity of the offenses and the potential penalties.

Summary courts-martial are designed to handle minor offenses in a relatively quick and informal manner. They typically consist of one officer who serves as the judge and can impose limited punishments.

Special courts-martial are a step up in terms of formality and can involve more serious offenses. They consist of a panel of one or more officers and sometimes enlisted members, allowing for a broader representation in legal proceedings.

General courts-martial deal with the most serious offenses, including felonies, and can impose severe penalties, including confinement and dishonorable discharge. These courts consist of a panel similar to the special courts but with more serious implications on the outcome.

The other options offered do not accurately reflect the correct categorization of court-martial types, leading to misconception about military judicial processes. Recognizing these three distinct types is crucial for understanding military law and the judicial discipline within the armed forces.