Legal Question in Military Law in Arizona

AWOL after 1 week @ Reception

I would like to know what will happen if a recruit goes AWOL after 1 week @ reception? He was being processed for an EPTS for a back injury prior to service after the doctor took x-rays and found a major fracture in his T-1 when he was accidentally pushed down the stairwell on the way to formation for chow. The recruit decided to come home. He did not receive any training what-so-ever just fed 3 meals a day and sat around while in pain waiting for paper work to be completed. He decided to come home nd see his doctor and to take it easy on his back. Will he get into serious trouble if he was ever pulled over for a general traffic stop? Will the government authorities come looking for him. Will local law enforcement come to his home and put him in jail away from his non-english speaking wife, a house, and major bills?

Please advise.


Asked on 5/09/07, 5:21 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Anthony DeWitt Bartimus, Frickleton Robertson & Gorny, PC

Re: AWOL after 1 week @ Reception

If it has been more than 30 days, AWOL is now desertion, and that is very serious. If it is not 30 days, then by all means return to military control as soon as possible. The fact that he was being processed for discharge does not mean he can just take off and go home. AWOL is serious and the military is taking more time to deal with these issues with a war on. The best thing that can happen is to return voluntarily. If the police or Army come looking for him, things will be much tougher on him.

Immediate surrender to military control is the best thing he can possibly do.

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Answered on 5/09/07, 9:28 am
John K. Harris Attorney at Law

Re: AWOL after 1 week @ Reception

The recruit should contact an attorney to make plans to return to military authorities. An attorney could help the recruit try to possibly secure a discharge from the military.

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Answered on 5/09/07, 10:35 pm


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