When you’re facing an AR 15-6 investigation, everything you’ve worked for in the military can feel at risk. These investigations can affect your career, your reputation, and even your future in the service. Knowing what to expect and how to protect yourself is the first step to fighting back.
What Is an AR 15-6 Investigation
An AR 15-6 investigation is a formal inquiry used by the U.S. Army to gather facts about alleged misconduct, accidents, or other incidents involving service members. It falls under Army Regulation 15-6, which sets the rules for administrative investigations.
The goal isn’t to punish you directly but to determine what happened and whether disciplinary or corrective actions are needed. That said, the findings can lead to serious consequences such as a General Officer Memorandum of Reprimand (GOMOR), Article 15, or even separation from service.
AR 15-6 investigations are used in many situations, including:
- Allegations of misconduct or ethical violations
- Equal Opportunity (EO) or SHARP complaints
- Property loss or damage
- Accidents or injuries in training or deployment
- Command climate issues
Even though the process is administrative, what you say and do during the investigation can shape your career outcome.
How the AR 15-6 Investigation Process Works
The process usually starts when a commander appoints an investigating officer (IO). This officer is responsible for collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and writing a report.
The steps typically include:
- Appointment of an Investigating Officer – The commander issues a memorandum appointing an IO to look into the incident.
- Collection of Evidence – The IO gathers statements, documents, and other materials to support the investigation.
- Interviews and Testimonies – Witnesses and involved parties are interviewed under oath.
- Findings and Recommendations – The IO writes a report with findings and recommendations for what should happen next.
- Command Review – The commander reviews the report and decides whether further action is needed.
This process may sound straightforward, but it’s filled with legal and procedural landmines. Statements can be misinterpreted, evidence can be incomplete, and bias can creep in. Having an experienced military defense lawyer during this stage can protect your rights and ensure the facts are presented accurately.
Common Mistakes Service Members Make During an AR 15-6
Many soldiers believe that cooperating fully and explaining everything will clear things up. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Some of the most common mistakes include:
- Speaking to the investigating officer without legal advice
- Submitting written statements without reviewing them with counsel
- Assuming the investigation is informal or minor
- Ignoring requests for information or documents
- Believing that “no response” is the safest option
Every word you say can be used against you. Even if the investigation isn’t criminal, it can still trigger career-damaging outcomes. The smartest move is to seek legal representation before making any statement.
Your Rights During an AR 15-6 Investigation
As a service member, you have specific rights during an AR 15-6 investigation. These include:
- The right to remain silent under Article 31(b) of the UCMJ if your answers could incriminate you
- The right to counsel before making a statement
- The right to review and respond to adverse findings
- The right to submit rebuttal evidence
Commanders and investigating officers sometimes fail to fully explain these rights. That’s why it’s important to know them yourself and exercise them carefully.
If you are named as the subject of the investigation, don’t assume silence equals guilt. A well-prepared response—guided by legal counsel—can provide your side of the story clearly and effectively.
What Can Happen After the Investigation Ends
Once the investigating officer submits their report, your commander reviews it and decides what actions to take. Possible outcomes include:
- No action taken if the allegations are unfounded
- Administrative actions like a reprimand or counseling
- Nonjudicial punishment under Article 15
- Recommendation for separation or court-martial
Even a reprimand can have lasting effects, especially if it goes in your permanent record. It can block promotions, security clearances, or future assignments.
In serious cases, commanders may use the findings to initiate elimination proceedings, effectively ending your military career.
How to Fight Back Against an AR 15-6 Investigation
You don’t have to face the process alone. A strong legal defense can help ensure your side of the story is heard and your rights are protected. Here’s how to fight back effectively:
- Hire a Military Defense Lawyer Immediately
A lawyer with experience in AR 15-6 cases understands the regulations, procedures, and military culture that drive these investigations. They can step in early, communicate with the investigating officer, and prepare your responses. - Collect and Preserve Evidence
Keep any documents, emails, or messages that might support your case. Witness statements and performance records can also be valuable. - Prepare a Written Rebuttal
After reviewing the findings, you can submit a written response challenging errors, inconsistencies, or unfair conclusions. A persuasive rebuttal often changes the outcome. - Stay Professional and Composed
Avoid arguing with your chain of command or discussing the case with coworkers. Keep communication respectful and strategic. - Use Your Rights Wisely
Silence can be powerful when used correctly. Don’t volunteer information without legal guidance, and don’t sign anything you haven’t reviewed with your lawyer.
Why AR 15-6 Investigations Are So Serious
Even though AR 15-6 investigations are administrative, they often become the basis for disciplinary or career-ending actions. For example:
- A negative finding can lead to a GOMOR in your permanent file.
- Adverse findings can result in loss of command opportunities.
- Investigations involving SHARP or EO issues can escalate into criminal inquiries.
The Army treats these reports seriously, and once written, they can follow you for the rest of your career. That’s why taking the process seriously from day one is critical.
How an Experienced Military Defense Lawyer Can Help
A skilled defense lawyer can help in several ways:
- Ensuring your rights are protected throughout the process
- Reviewing the investigating officer’s procedures for bias or errors
- Helping you craft a detailed rebuttal statement
- Identifying gaps or contradictions in witness statements
- Advocating for you during command reviews
An attorney experienced in military law knows how to challenge unfair findings, protect your record, and, when necessary, appeal adverse decisions.
What To Expect If You’re Facing a Career Impact
If the final report includes adverse findings, you’ll often have a limited window to respond. Your lawyer can request a copy of the findings and prepare a rebuttal packet with statements, evidence, and legal arguments.
In some cases, commanders reconsider their decision after reviewing a strong rebuttal. In others, you may have to pursue appeals or formal redress through administrative channels. Every case is different, but a smart defense strategy always focuses on facts, fairness, and your service record.
Protecting Your Future in the Military
Fighting an AR 15-6 investigation is about more than clearing your name. It’s about protecting your rank, your reputation, and your future. A single mistake in how you respond can change everything, but with the right guidance, you can push back and defend what you’ve earned.
If you’re under investigation, the time to act is now. The earlier you get legal help, the more control you have over the outcome. Call (360) 908-2203 today to speak with a military defense lawyer who can help you fight back and protect your career.