Summer Job Diaries: Rising 2L Serves as Paralegal Specialist for U.S. Army Judge Advocate General's (JAG) Corps
Remi Halliburton, worked with the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General's (JAG) Corps at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas as a paralegal specialist. Fort Bliss makes up the busiest Army jurisdiction in the country with its unique position on the U.S.-Mexico border. The JAG Corps is composed of commissioned officers, paralegals, civilian attorneys, and administrators who tackle military justice and legal issues across all sectors of the Army.
How did you land your summer job?
I applied directly in February 2023 to the JAG Corps website, which required my resume, transcripts, and personal statement about my interest in joining the JAG Corps. The JAG Corps cares less about feelings of patriotism and more about how your unique experience as a lawyer can help you serve those who serve our country.
What is the most interesting part of your job?
Working in my office cubicle where I am surrounded by high-ranking military officers, including the Commanding General and Command Sergeant Major, has been very special. I have been attending physical training in the morning with the unit, where I get to witness formation and tradition. It is through the little things like saluting and addressing individuals with rank where you feel the importance of showing respect in the military organization.
What has been your most challenging assignment thus far?
The Army utilizes a court-martial to put soldiers on trial for being accused of certain offenses under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). The rules of evidence and civil procedure mirror those of the federal system. Courts-martial are open to the public, which allowed us interns to witness one this summer. Since Fort Bliss is the busiest jurisdiction, unfortunately, there are a lot of violations of the UCMJ, including murder, domestic violence, wrongful use or possession of controlled substances, and sexual assault. I sat through a domestic violence court-martial, watching multiple days of the presentation of evidence and testimony of witnesses.
What new legal skill have you acquired during your summer job?
Collaborating with commissioned JAG officers, I provide legal assistance to military personnel and their families, spanning from divorces and non-judicial punishments to estate planning. This fast-paced legal environment, which combines exposure to military and civilian problem sets, has developed my sense of duty, adaptability, and ability to make sound judgments in high-stakes situations.
What bit of legal knowledge have you been able to display?
For the first few weeks of my job, I spent my days doing legal reviews of investigations for lost or damaged military property or line of duty determinations. This involved analyzing whether the investigations were legal sufficient according to negligent standards, which directly applied legal rules learned in Torts.
How has Loyola helped you map your career path?
My career advisor has helped me with my cover letters, resume, and discussing my next job prospects. Her guidance has made me feel supported during the daunting job application process following my 1L year.