COMDTINST 5801.5B — Special Victims’ Counsel And Disability Evaluation System Counsel

COMDTINST 5801.5B governs administration of the Coast Guard Special Victims’ Counsel and Disability Evaluation System Counsel programs.

Search COMDTINST 5801.5B

  • Publication number: COMDTINST 5801.5B
  • Title: SPECIAL VICTIMS’ COUNSEL AND DISABILITY EVALUATION SYSTEM COUNSEL
  • Date: 7/10/2025
  • Proponent: CG-LMA

View COMDTINST 5801.5B on armypubs.army.mil

It covers SVC representation for victims of alleged sex-related offenses and DES legal representation for members undergoing the DES process. It sets SVC qualifications, certification, training, detailing, and collateral-duty conditions.

Applies to: All Coast Guard unit commanders, commanding officers, officers-in-charge, deputy/assistant commandants, and chiefs of headquarter directorates must comply with the policies contained.

Topics covered

  • Special Victims’ Counsel services
  • Disability Evaluation System Counsel
  • SVC qualifications and certification
  • SVC training
  • SVC detailing
  • Collateral duty SVCs
  • Victim notifications and service requests

Questions and answers

Who must follow COMDTINST 5801.5B?

All personnel providing services under the SVC and DES Programs shall execute their duties in accordance with this Instruction. (paragraph 8)

What legal representation does the SVC Program provide?

The SVC Program offers legal representation to victims of alleged sex-related offenses throughout the military justice and administrative process. (paragraph 5)

What qualifications are required for military SVCs?

All military SVCs shall be certified in accordance with Article 27(b) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice. SVCs shall attend an SVC Certification Course and have either two years legal or relevant Coast Guard leadership experience.

What training must SVCs complete before serving?

Prior to serving as an SVC, individuals must attend an SVC certification course executed by one of the military service branches.

When may collateral duty SVCs perform SVC duties?

Military attorneys who were previously certified as an SVC but have subsequently taken a new position may perform SVC duties as a collateral duty with the approval of their current supervisor and with Commandant (CG-LMA).

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