On this Veterans’ Day, let’s honor the sacrifices and accomplishments of men and women in uniform. Serving in the military demonstrates an unwavering belief in the ideals that define the United States. One of those most important ideals is adherence to the rule of law and the U.S Constitution.
This ideal is most relevant to those members of the U.S. military who serve as attorneys. This is a unique calling that combines the intellectual challenges of practicing law with the deep responsibility that comes from military service.
A common career option for recent law graduates is the Judge Advocate General's (JAG) Corps. The JAG Corps represents the legal arm of the U.S. military, providing legal counsel on issues ranging from criminal law, military justice, and international law. They serve in various roles across branches, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard. They embody and uphold the rule of law, every day.
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Paul M. Janicke |
Professor Paul M. Janicke is a terrific exemplar of this unique military and legal service. He teaches in the Intellectual Property and Information Law Program at UH Law. The program encompasses patent, copyright, trademark, and trade secret law.
After receiving his J.D. from the New York University School of Law, he began his career as a Navy JAG Corps officer from 1965-1968. He divided his time between the Third Naval District in Brooklyn and the Naval Station Newport in Rhode Island.
In this role, Professor Janicke was able to exhibit a variety of competencies involving legal administration and trial experience serving as a prosecutor and defense attorney. At the conclusion of his service, Janicke reached the rank of Lieutenant Commander.
When asked if he would recommend law graduates to pursue becoming JAG officers in the U.S. military, Janicke’s response was: “100%.”
“The learning experience, trial experience and learning the rules of evidence – the benefits are terrific,” Janicke said. “You’ll meet so many people you wouldn’t have met otherwise. I would highly recommend it to anybody who has the opportunity to join any of the JAGs, not just the Navy.”
Military attorneys in the U.S. armed forces are not only defenders of justice but also integral parts of the military structure, balancing legal duties with leadership roles and responsibilities unique to military life. Their work is dynamic, impactful, and shaped by a purpose that goes beyond a typical legal career.
Veterans who served in the military and then become attorneys also bring a diverse skill set to the practice of law. Skills gained in military service—like discipline, leadership, and adaptability—are highly transferable to legal practice. Veterans often bring resilience, strategic thinking, and a strong ethical foundation to the legal field, enhancing their abilities as advocates, negotiators, and advisors.
After more than 20 years in private practice at Arnold, White & Durkee, Professor Janicke started teaching at UH Law Center in 1992 bringing all the skills and training that he acquired as a member of the JAG Corps.
Veterans have protected our country in ways we cannot fully measure, and their sacrifices have impacted all of us. They leave their families, put their lives on hold, and exhibit great bravery to ensure our safety and uphold our common values.
Happy Veterans Day! Thank you to all veterans for their service to our nation!
Leonard M. Baynes
Dean, Hugh Roy and Lillie Cranz Cullen Distinguished Chair, and Professor of Law
University of Houston Law Center
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The University of Houston Law Center
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