The Judge Advocate General’s (JAG) Corps is the legal branch of the military, providing legal services to all branches of the United States armed forces. Becoming a JAG lawyer can be an incredibly rewarding career choice for those who are passionate about both law and serving their country. Follow these 15 steps to jumpstart your journey towards becoming a JAG lawyer:

1. Research: Understand what it truly means to be a JAG lawyer and what your prospective duties will include.

2. Qualifications: Ensure that you meet the basic qualifications, including being a U.S. citizen, passing security clearances, and meeting age requirements.

3. Choose a branch: Determine which branch of the military best suits your aspirations and interests. Each branch has its own JAG Corps.

4. Educational path: Pursue an undergraduate degree in pre-law, political science, or another relevant field.

5. Law school: Gain admission into an American Bar Association-accredited law school and choose courses that focus on military law or other related topics.

6. Network: Connect with current or former JAG lawyers during law school to gain invaluable insights, tips, and guidance from their experiences.

7. Physical fitness: Maintain excellent physical fitness throughout the process as military service often requires meeting certain fitness standards.

8. Obtain license to practice law: After completing law school, pass your state’s bar exam to become licensed as an attorney in the United States.

9. Gain professional experience: Work as a civilian attorney for at least two years before applying to join the JAG Corps (preferably in areas related to military law).

10. Begin application process: Apply directly to your chosen branch’s JAG Corps through their respective Officer Accession programs (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps or Coast Guard).

11. Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS): Complete the required medical examinations and other processing to ensure eligibility for military service.

12. Officer Training and JAG Officer Basic Course: Upon selection, complete your branch’s officer training and JAG officer basic course.

13. First assignment: Begin your journey as a JAG lawyer by serving in either an active duty or reserve position depending on your specific branch of the military.

14. Continuing education: Stay current on legal developments and seek professional development opportunities to grow in your career as a JAG lawyer.

15. Establish a successful career: Excel at your responsibilities, seek promotions, and make a positive impact on the legal issues facing the United States military.

By following these 15 steps and maintaining discipline, determination, and passion for law and military service, you will be well on your way to becoming a successful JAG lawyer for the United States armed forces.