Who appoints the SVIP team?

• A. The CC
• B. AF JAJM
• C. The Base Commander
• D. The SJA

Answer: (D)

The key idea is that the installation’s legal authority is responsible for appointing specialized investigative teams that handle sensitive cases with proper legal oversight. The Staff Judge Advocate (SJA) is the installation’s lead legal adviser, ensuring that investigations, prosecutorial actions, and protections for victims and witnesses comply with military law and policy. Appointing the SVIP team through the SJA helps preserve objectivity and independence from line command influence, while ensuring the team has the right legal guidance and authority to operate.

Other offices provide support or policy guidance, but they do not hold the formal authority to appoint such a team. That appointment responsibility rests with the SJA, making them the appropriate choice.