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Index/Organizations/The Orders Project

The Orders Project

Fact-Checks

2 results
Nov 21, 2025
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Can you disobey a direct order from a military officer

The Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) requires service members to obey lawful orders but also bars following unlawful or “patently illegal” orders; courts and military lawyers decide lawfulness,...

Feb 5, 2026

What procedures exist for servicemembers to seek legal advice or lawful‑order clarification before complying with a questionable command?

Servicemembers concerned that an order may be unlawful have established, codified paths to seek clarification: ask for from serving Judge Advocates (JAGs), raise the issue up the chain of command and ...