Which type of court-martial is designed for more serious offenses?

The general court-martial is the highest level of court-martial in the military justice system and is specifically designed to handle the most serious offenses. This court has the authority to adjudicate cases involving felonies, such as desertion, sexual assault, murder, and other significant breaches of military law. It can impose severe penalties, including long-term confinement, dishonorable discharge, or even the death penalty in capital cases.

In contrast, summary and special courts-martial are intended for less severe infractions. Summary court-martial is typically used for minor offenses and involves a simplified process and limited penalties. Special court-martial, while more serious than summary courts, still handles mid-level offenses and has more restrictions on punishment compared to general courts-martial. Non-judicial punishment tribunals, on the other hand, are administrative actions for minor infractions and do not involve formal court processes. Thus, the general court-martial is uniquely positioned to deal with the gravest charges within military law.