Which type of charges will lead to military personnel being treated as civilians rather than turned over to armed forces?

Military personnel can be treated as civilians under certain circumstances, primarily based on the nature and severity of the charges they face. In this case, when military personnel are charged with felonies, they may be processed and treated under civilian law rather than military law. This reflects a fundamental aspect of the legal system where felonies, which are serious offenses, often require a different level of legal scrutiny and can lead to federal or state jurisdiction.

The decision to treat military personnel as civilians is particularly relevant for more serious offenses, as these charges can significantly impact the individual's rights and the legal procedures that apply to their case. The severity of felonies necessitates a thorough investigation and prosecution process that may not align with military judicial proceedings.

On the other hand, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and public intoxication typically remain within the military's jurisdiction. These offenses, considered less severe, usually lead to disciplinary actions under military regulations rather than civilian law. Understanding this distinction is vital for military personnel and those interacting with them, as it influences the legal recourse and potential outcomes for those charged.