Washington Army National Guard
Judge Advocate General (JAG)
Join a Firm Like No Other
Leverage your law degree to serve the nation and advocate for justice as a military lawyer
The U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps, or JAG Corps, is a government law organization and one of the country’s largest law firms. | |
As a JAG officer you will: Defend the Army and its Soldiers in all military legal matters. Provides important legal advice to senior Army officials. Fight for justice at home and around the globe. |
JAG Corps: Army Judge Advocate General's (JAG) Corps Attorney (27A) | |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Army lawyers have to go to Basic Training?
As a Judge Advocate, you won't participate in the Basic Training that enlisted Soldiers complete. Instead, you'll attend the Direct Commission Course (DCC), a six-week intensive physical, weapons, and leadership course that will prepare you to serve as an Officer.
After completing the DCC, you’ll attend the ten-and-a-half -week Judge Advocate Basic Training Course. Through a combination of classroom instruction and practical exercises, you’ll be immersed in military law and learn every aspect of the JAG Corps’ organization, function, and mission.
Do military lawyers have to pass a fitness test?
Yes, you must meet Army height and weight standards, and pass the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT).
What happens after JAG Officer training?
After completing the Judge Advocate Basic Training Course, JAG Officers report to the Washington Army National Guard and begin practicing law.
How do I get into the JAG Corps if I’ve already attended law school and am not in the Army?
There are two things you’ll need to do as part of the JAG Corps application process: submit an application and interview with a Judge Advocate who is designated as a Field Screening Officer (FSO). Contact the Specialty Branch of the Officer Strength Management team to start the process. Their contact information is listed at the end of this page.
Your JAG application will contain:
- Undergraduate, graduate, and law school transcripts
- Resume
- Personal statement describing why you’d like to join
- Certificate of good standing
- Prior military service documents, if applicable
- Optional letters of recommendation
- Optional writing sample
The selection board will also review your undergraduate and graduate school transcripts, LSAT score, ORB, OERs, personal statement, and years of law experience. Your moral standing and ability to display leadership will also be considered.
Contact Us
Address: Building 81, Camp Murray, Tacoma, Washington 98430
Email: ng.wa.waarng.mbx.rrb-osm-specialty@army.mil
Specialty Branch Work Cell: (253) 442-4348
Specialty Branch Office: (253) 912-3135
Office of Strength Management: (253) 512-1400