Murphy’s LAW
An informal column about issues affecting the West Point Community

Commentary by Capt. Patrick Murphy and
Lt. Col. Mike Hokenson
SJA

The whole world was watching New York’s own Baby Bombers in the Little League World Series over the weekend. Dominant pitching, clutch hitting and solid defense led the way for these future Joe DiMaggios. I am sure the major league scouts will be keeping tabs on these little guys. Similarly, the Army is keeping tabs on its next generation of attorneys.

Perhaps you would like to be the next Lt. Daniel Caffey from a "A Few Good Men." Whatever the case, I hope you consider one of the best opportunities in the Army -- where you can combine your love of the military with a passion for the law -- the Funded Legal Entry Program.

Before I explain the FLEP in detail, it’s helpful to understand what it takes to become an attorney-at-law.

First, you have to complete a bachelor’s degree, take the dreaded law school admissions test and be accepted at a law school. Once you’ve done all that, plan on three tough years of studying the nuances of civil procedure, contracts, torts, property law, ethics and criminal law. You will also take a number of specialized courses that can touch upon taxes, intellectual property, real estate, securities, bankruptcy and other topics.

After you successfully complete your law degree, known as a juris doctorate, you take your state bar exam (an absolutely excruciating multiple-day exam that ensures the attorney has what it takes to practice law). Once you pass this last hurdle, you become an attorney-at-law and may be eligible for selection into the Judge Advocate General’s Corps.

Being a lawyer provides you the ability to assist people in a number of ways including settling debts, resolving contract disputes, advising clients and participating in the criminal justice system. But, as I noted above, going to law school is not only difficult, it’s expensive -- and that is where the FLEP program can help.

Each year the Army selects approximately 15 commissioned officers to attend law school at the Army’s expense. In return, selectees agree to serve their country for an additional six years.

I would like to note that the two most senior judge advocates currently stationed at West Point were selected as FLEP officers. Col. Patrick Finnegan (USMA Class of 1971) is the head of the Department of Law (and unfortunately a Yankees fan) and Col. James Gerstenlauer is the Staff Judge Advocate (and thankfully a Phillies fan). Also, the new deputy head of the law department, Lt. Col. Ritz Ryan (USMA Class of 1982), was also a FLEP officer. These three officers are part of the Army’s JAG Corps, an organization with more than 1,500 active-duty members.

Like many of the best things in life, becoming a FLEP officer is not easy and very, very competitive. However, for those who love the Army and the law, this is one of the best opportunities to combine two great professions. Officers selected into the FLEP program will be attending law school while gainfully employed as active-duty officers. They will spend their summer months working in active Army legal offices, preparing to provide legal guidance to commanders, staff, soldiers and family members.

Cadets are eligible for the FLEP program after they have served two years on active-duty. Remember, having strong command support and endorsements is one of the key requirements for selection into this program. The best advice Murphy’s Law can give you is to become the best officer you can be. The selection board considers your success as an officer just as important as your academic prowess.

Judge Advocates provide legal guidance to the highest-level command and staff. They accompany troops into war and provide critical information on rights and responsibilities under international law and treaty. They make sure installations comply with a host of fiscal laws, and obtain the best bargain for the dollar in contracting actions.

Judge Advocates also represent soldiers and family members facing creditors and lawsuits. They provide invaluable assistance in family practice matters such as divorce and adoption. They prosecute soldiers who have committed serious crimes, and defend soldiers who face years in confinement.

Judge Advocates help ensure justice is always served.

If you would like further information on the FLEP program, please contact Lt. Col. Mike Hokenson at 938-3205. But, if you are looking for a prediction on the five hot divisional races in the major leagues -- and are disappointed with MEDDAC’s favorite sports writer and his reluctance to give you some clear insight -- look no further.