United States v. Caprio

Predictability of outcome has grown scarce in United States trials. As sensitive courts, civilian and military, examine specifics of cases, harsh application of rules has yielded to case-by-case determinations often based on balancing of competing interests. Most observers, however, abhor the current litigation mass and seek fair, but firm, “rules”.

The United States assails the trial judge’s application of a rule because of the result. Petty Officer Cox assumed a duty to serve several years of active service in return for his initial enlistment in pay grade E-3, his rapid promotion to pay…