Legal Question in Military Law in Arizona

Yet another officer enlisted marriage question

What could happen if an Army officer and enlisted decide they want to marry? If there has been a prior relationship that was found out and an investigation held, could they be charged again if they decided to marry? If they were not found to be fraternizing before the fact, what would happen after they got married? And does the military require its members to register if they marry or can that be maintained as confidential personal information?


Asked on 10/12/05, 5:57 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Neal Puckett The Law Firm of Puckett and Faraj, PC

Re: Yet another officer enlisted marriage question

No service member can be prevented from marrying. There was a time when the service would use the marriage as proof that unlawful fraternization had occurred beforehand, but it is rare today. The best way to discourage that would be to be discreet. However, althought there is no requirement to "register," a change in your marital status must be reported so that your records are accurate. You keep a marriage confidential at your own risk. You could be subjected to disciplinary action for failing to report your marriage if it is ever discovered. Some service members choose to have one member leave active duty, or go into the reserves, to moot the issue. Check your service's regulations or inquire at the base legal assistance office for more information.

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Answered on 10/12/05, 6:54 am


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