Navigating Domestic Climate Crises Responses for the Operational Judge Advocate

By Major Emily E. Bobenrieth

Read Time: < 23 mins

This article by Major Emily E. Bobenrieth emphasizes the increasing importance of legal preparedness for U.S. military judge advocates in responding to domestic climate-related disasters under Defense Support of Civil Authorities (DSCA). It highlights the evolving legal landscape, including procedures for requesting federal assistance, the role of the Dual-Status Commander, and the use of Immediate Response Authority (IRA) in time-sensitive crises.

Collapsed mountain road with broken asphalt and rocks over a flooded river

Glowing car icon standing out among gray car silhouettes

Read Time: < 10 mins

Massachusetts Appellate Tax Board Rules that the SCRA Prohibits Local Taxes on Leased Vehicles

This article analyzes a landmark Massachusetts Appellate Tax Board decision that extended the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act’s protections to leased vehicles, shielding active-duty service members from local excise taxes in jurisdictions outside their domicile.

By Mr. Matthew A. Morris

Computer mouse on pad with keyboard and hands typing in the background

Read Time: < 12 mins

Wills with LexisNexis: Empowering Paralegals and Avoiding Professional Responsibility Pitfalls

The article discusses the transition from the U.S. Army’s DL Wills software to LexisNexis for estate planning document drafting, emphasizing its user-friendly interface and enhanced functionality. It highlights the importance of proper supervision and training for paralegals to ensure competence and prevent the unauthorized practice of law while utilizing the accessible software.

By Major Ceara L. Riggs

Podium with U.S. Senate seal and empty chairs in a Senate hearing room

Read Time: < 12 mins

Five Things Every Judge Advocate Should Know About Federal Law (But May Be Afraid to Ask)

This article emphasizes the importance of judge advocates understanding the structure, sources, and research tools related to U.S. Federal law, particularly the U.S. Code, its organization, and legislative history. It explains key concepts such as positive law codification, statutory notes, and legislative reports, highlighting how these elements aid legal interpretation and research.

By Mr. Michael Jones

Black-and-white image of a baseball player wearing a GIANTS jersey and cap. The player is in a ready stance, appearing focused and alert. The uniform suggests the image is from a historical era, possibly mid-20th century, and the background is minimal, emphasizing the subject.

Read Time: < 12 mins

The Five-Tool Judge Advocate: Mastering the Essential Pillars of Principled Counsel and Leadership

The article "The Five-Tool Judge Advocate" draws parallels between baseball and military lawyering, emphasizing that success in both fields relies on mastering five key tools: strategic vision, operational excellence, communication and influence, adaptability, and ethical integrity.

By Colonel Christopher B. Burgess with Lieutenant Colonel Scott L. Goble