Short Answer
There is no requirement for a disinterested party like JAG or the IG to be present during a counseling session
Discussion
There is no regulation that states JAG or the IG can or cannot be presence during a counseling session. I personally see no reason for them to be involved during a counseling session.
If the Soldier has concerns about the counseling session they can certainly ask the chain of command for a disinterested party such as JAG/IG to be present but this is a highly unusual request. The more reasonable request would be to ask that someone else be present during the session. It is up to the individual conducting the counseling to grant that request.
Comments
Mark Gerecht
Tracy,
Thanks for your feedback! JAG is divided into two parts one part represents the chain of command and the other represents the Soldier. I have found that these two entities usually do a good job of staying in their lanes and focusing on their specific duties. However since humans are involved there is always that case which is the exception to the rule. As you stated in your response “Just let the Soldier contact the IG after the counseling session and provide them a copy of the documentation. It would be a good idea to let the chain of command know the Soldier has expressed interest in contacting the IG to ensure the 1SG/CDR are not caught off guard.
Thanks again
TOP