u.s.s. Lancelot NCC-74410

diplomatic/JAG dEPARTMENT

OPERATIONAL LAW

Operational law is the application of domestic, interplanetary, and foreign law to the planning for, training for, deployment of, and employment of Starfleet forces. Operational law legal services increase the effectiveness of Starfleet forces by assisting commanders to employ them lawfully. Just as important, judge advocates identify areas in which planners have been overly restrictive in the use of force in the mistaken belief that the law requires the restrictions. Judge advocates:

(1) Advise the commander, staff, and subordinate commanders on the law of war; all relevant interplanetary law matters, including status of forces and other interplanetary agreements and treaties; and domestic law addressing the use of Starfleet forces abroad, such as the War Powers Resolution. These matters include advice on:

    (a) Operations plans and orders.

    (b) Targets and weapons.

    (c) The investigation and disposition of alleged violations of the law of war.

    (d) Treatment of detainees, enemy prisoners of war, and refugees.

    (e) The seizure and requisition of private properly for military use.

    (f) The legal aspects of civil affairs operations.

(2) Prepare legal annexes to operations orders.

(3) Review and interpret rules of engagement.

(4) Provide unit training on the law of war as required by treaty and regulation.

Should you have any questions or comments please e-mail the Chief Diplomatic/JAG Officer at the Diplomatic/JAG Department aboard the U.S.S. Lancelot.