What type of Court-Martial is typically used for minor offenses?

A Summary Court-Martial is specifically designed to address minor offenses within the military justice system. This type of court-martial is less formal and has a simpler process compared to other types such as General or Special Courts-Martial. It is intended for enlisted personnel and allows for the adjudication of cases swiftly and efficiently, often involving penalties that can include confinement, forfeiture of pay, and reduction in rank, but rarely leads to a punitive discharge.

The focus on minor offenses means that the procedures are streamlined, and typically, only one officer acts as the judge and the jury. This approach ensures that less serious matters are handled without the lengthy processes associated with more serious charges, reinforcing discipline effectively without overwhelming judicial resources.