Three Types Of Command Directed Investigations

Preliminary investigations

As the name suggests, preliminary investigations start the investigatory process. According to Army Regulation 15-6, a preliminary inquiry “is a procedure used to ascertain the magnitude of a problem, to identify and interview witnesses, to summarize or record witnesses’ statements, to determine whether an investigation or board may be necessary, or to assist in determining the scope of a subsequent investigation.”

This means that the preliminary inquiry is simply the opening procedure by which the authorities determine the validity of the claims, the scope of the allegations and whether an administrative investigation or a board of officers would be the best way to proceed.

Administrative investigation

Between administrative investigations and boards of officers, administrative investigations represent situations in which evidence can be gathered and facts can be ascertained without requiring a panel of officers to be involved in the process.

Boards of officers

Boards of officers often come into play in more situations involving more serious allegations. The procedure is similar to that of an administrative investigation, only it involves a board of officers doing the fact gathering.

What you need to know

Whatever procedure you are facing, take the step of contacting an experienced military defense attorney as soon as possible. With the possibility of discharge, punishment, loss of your security clearance and other penalties, the stakes are high, so make sure you have a strong defense strategy as early as possible.