scope:

Purpose. a. Obligations, duties, and essential characteristics of military judges. Although the primary thrust of this benchbook is to assist military judges in preparation of trial instructions, military judges must constantly be mindful of their judicial responsibilities in and out of the courtroom. In this regard, additional guidance may be found in publications of such organizations as the American Bar Association, American Judicature Society, and National Conference of State Trial Judges. Particular attention should be given to the Code of Judicial Conduct and Standards for the Administration of Criminal Justice pertaining to the Special Functions of the Trial Judge as promulgated by The American Bar Association.

Applicability. This pamphlet applies to the Active Army, the Army National Guard, and the U.S. Army Reserve.