What in civilian life often ends in a settlement or the closing of a case is a different world in the military: the IDF practices a zero-tolerance policy on drugs, and use of a dangerous drug by a soldier is an offense under the Military Justice Law even when done on leave, at home, far from any base.
Zero tolerance: the rules in the military are completely different
What in civilian life often ends in a settlement or the closing of a case is a different world in the military: the IDF practices a zero-tolerance policy on drugs, and use of a dangerous drug by a soldier is an offense under the Military Justice Law even when done on leave, at home, far from any base. A soldier who admits in a urine test or in questioning by the Military Police Criminal Investigation Division to cannabis use at a civilian party risks an indictment in a military court, incarceration, and consequences for the continuation of his service.
How are the cases opened?
Initiated urine tests in units; intelligence information; incrimination by other soldiers during questioning; and correspondence found on phones. Questioning by the Military Police Criminal Investigation Division is an investigation in every respect: a soldier has the right to consult a lawyer before giving a version, and the right to remain silent. The common and fatal mistake: young soldiers who immediately confess and give the names of friends, thinking that "cooperation will help." The confession is the main evidence in most cases.
The punishment and the consequences
The punishment is derived from the type of drug, the extent of the use, and whether it involves only use or also possession, mediation, and supply to other soldiers (far more serious offenses): from confinement and a suspended sentence, through actual imprisonment in military detention, to demotion in rank. Beyond the punishment: a criminal record that carries over into civilian life, harm to roles and security clearance, and at times the question of continuation of the entire service.
Legal representation
Israel Arama represents soldiers in military drug cases: advice before an MPCID questioning, representation in the military courts, and action to reduce the harm to their civilian future. Especially important: seek advice before the questioning, not after it.
Zero tolerance: the rules in the military are completely different — what is important to know?
What in civilian life often ends in a settlement or the closing of a case is a different world in the military: the IDF practices a zero-tolerance policy on drugs, and use of a dangerous drug by a soldier is an offense under the Military Justice Law even when done on leave, at home, far from any base. A soldier who admits in a urine test or in questioning by the Military Police Criminal Investigation Division to cannabis use at a civilian party risks an indictment in a military court, incarceration, and consequences for the continuation of his service.
How are the cases opened?
Initiated urine tests in units; intelligence information; incrimination by other soldiers during questioning; and correspondence found on phones. Questioning by the Military Police Criminal Investigation Division is an investigation in every respect: a soldier has the right to consult a lawyer before giving a version, and the right to remain silent. The common and fatal mistake: young soldiers who immediately confess and give the names of friends, thinking that "cooperation will help." The confession is the main evidence in most cases.
The punishment and the consequences — what is important to know?
The punishment is derived from the type of drug, the extent of the use, and whether it involves only use or also possession, mediation, and supply to other soldiers (far more serious offenses): from confinement and a suspended sentence, through actual imprisonment in military detention, to demotion in rank. Beyond the punishment: a criminal record that carries over into civilian life, harm to roles and security clearance, and at times the question of continuation of the entire service.
This information is for initial orientation about the service and contact process. It is not individual legal advice.
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