Who may authorize a specific number of alternates for a panel, according to the given guidance?

Who may authorize a specific number of alternates for a panel, according to the given guidance?

• A. no alternates
• B. MJ may authorize a specific number of alternates
• C. MJ may authorize alternates only if excess members remain after challenges
• D. CA may authorize alternates

Answer: (B)

The essential point is that the person presiding over the case, the military judge, controls how many alternative jurors or panel members are planned for. The military judge may authorize a specific number of alternates to ensure there are ready replacements if any panel member becomes unavailable or disqualified, so the panel can still assemble a legally constituted group without delay. This authority stays with the judge to maintain the trial’s integrity and efficiency; the convening authority does not typically dictate the number of alternates. The idea that alternates are only needed after challenges or that none are allowed isn’t consistent with maintaining a full, functional panel, hence the correct choice.

The essential point is that the person presiding over the case, the military judge, controls how many alternative jurors or panel members are planned for. The military judge may authorize a specific number of alternates to ensure there are ready replacements if any panel member becomes unavailable or disqualified, so the panel can still assemble a legally constituted group without delay. This authority stays with the judge to maintain the trial’s integrity and efficiency; the convening authority does not typically dictate the number of alternates. The idea that alternates are only needed after challenges or that none are allowed isn’t consistent with maintaining a full, functional panel, hence the correct choice.