Defending Against An Army GOMOR

Stated concisely, a general officer memorandum of reprimand (GOMOR) is issued by an Army General to an officer or enlisted member as a serious form of administrative action.  We say “serious” because, although a GOMOR is considered “administrative” in nature, it can absolutely destroy a Soldier’s career and potentially lead to their separation from the Army.

Although it doesn’t always happen, the GOMOR issuing officer should follow certain guidelines to ensure that the reprimand is fair and reasonable, including:

• Clearly outlining the specific actions or behaviors that are being reprimanded.
• Providing specific examples of the misconduct or poor performance.
• Outlining the consequences of the misconduct or poor performance.
• Ensuring that the GOMOR is issued in accordance with military regulations and procedures
• Providing an opportunity for the Soldier to respond to the GOMOR.

   

A GOMOR may be issued for any alleged violation of the UCMJ or Army regulation. And although a Soldier being issued a GOMOR will be told that it is not punitive in nature, it sure will feel that way if it derails your career or leads to elimination from the Army.  

How Do I Fight a GOMOR?

If you have been issued a GOMOR and you believe that it is unfair or unjust, then you should absolutely fight to have it thrown out entirely (rescinded).  Further, in cases where it is unlikely that the GOMOR will be rescinded, you will still want to fight tooth and nail to have it temporarily filed, vice permanently filed, in your official Army Military Human Resource Record (AMHRR).  And the best way to wage either of these fights is with an experienced military attorney that has a proven track record for defending Army Soldiers against GOMORs.   

If you are an Army service member that is facing a GOMOR, contact Liebenguth Law today for a free consultation and learn how we would investigate, prepare, and aggressively defend your case.