What role does a military lawyer play in a court-martial?

In the context of a court-martial, a military lawyer typically serves in one of two primary capacities: as a member of the judicial tribunal or as a legal adviser to the court.1

When serving as a judicial member, the lawyer acts as a judge, participating in deliberations regarding the court's findings alongside other members of the tribunal. To ensure judicial independence, these lawyers are often appointed to fixed tenures.1

When serving as a legal adviser—a role common in Anglo-American systems—the lawyer instructs the lay members of the court on the principles of law to be applied. In this capacity, the adviser does not participate in the tribunal's deliberations on guilt or innocence. While they may remain present during discussions regarding sentencing, they act strictly in an advisory role and do not hold a vote. In the United States, this role is filled by a military judge, who may also sit as the sole judge in a case if requested by the accused.1

Additionally, military lawyers may act as counsel for the accused, providing defense assistance throughout the legal process.2