5J Paralegal

The pursuit of justice is at the center of every Air Force objective. So the rights of Airmen are naturally held in the highest regard and are defended and supported by top legal minds like Air Force Judge Advocates (JAG). These highly trained attorneys handle a wide variety of legal issues including international law, operations law, environmental law and military and civilian personnel issues. From trial preparation to post-trial actions, they provide important legal counsel every step of the way.

Minimum Education

• Required Degree: A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school. This requirement underscores the need for a solid foundation in law as the basis for all subsequent qualifications and responsibilities.

Qualifications

• Legal Knowledge: Proficiency in military and civilian law is crucial, indicating that candidates must understand both the unique legal framework governing military personnel and operations, as well as the civilian legal system.
• Bar Admission: Candidates must be currently admitted to practice before the bar of a Federal Court or the highest court of a state. This ensures that they are legally qualified to practice law within the United States.
• Military Designation: Obtaining a designation as a judge advocate by The Judge Advocate General signifies formal recognition and authorization to serve as a legal officer within the military’s legal corps.
• Officer Training: Completion of Officer Training School (OTS) is required, which provides candidates with military leadership training and indoctrination into military culture and operations.
• Age Requirement: Candidates must be between the ages of 18 and 42, which aligns with general military commissioning standards and ensures a certain level of maturity and potential for a meaningful length of service.