Involuntary Administrative Separation/Show Cause Boards/Boards of Inquiry

While you won’t face the possibility of conviction or confinement, you will face the possibility of being fired from the military and separated with an Honorable, General Under Honorable Conditions, or Other Than Honorable discharge, which can result in the loss of benefits.

You can be involuntarily separated for a variety of things: misconduct, criminal conviction, unsatisfactory performance, failing to meet physical fitness or weight standards, drug or alcohol rehabilitation failure, or having a physical or mental health condition that interferes with your ability to perform your duties.

Your entitlement to a board depends on how much time you have in service and the recommended characterization of service. If you are entitled to a board, then you are entitled to legal representation at the hearing, which is a trial-like process, but the standard of proof is only a preponderance of the evidence, not beyond a reasonable doubt.

Mr. Sheldon came highly recommended by a fellow Public Health Service (PHS) officer. After initial discussion he immediately reviewed my case and provided me with a clear pathway. I retained Mr. Sheldon’s firm to apply to the PHS Board of Corrections to obtain adjudication of my rightful promotion. His knowledge of the law, the system and prior cases is phenomenal. His team worked efficiently, diligently and we were able to get a successful outcome. I would highly recommend him to any uniformed service person.

- CDR HM