Under article 15 of the UCMJ, how many days do you have to appeal a punishment?

Under Article 15 of the UCMJ, a service member has five days to submit an appeal for punishment imposed under non-judicial punishment procedures. This timeframe is essential because it allows the service member a structured opportunity to contest the punishment, ensuring that due process is observed in military discipline. An appeal can be made to a higher authority, usually the commanding officer, who has the power to review the case and determine whether the punishment should be upheld, modified, or dismissed. The five-day limit is designed to ensure that the appeal process is timely and does not prolong the uncertainty for the service member regarding the consequences of their actions. Understanding this timeframe is critical for service members to navigate their rights and responsibilities effectively within the military justice system.