Who ensures that the civilian authorities are notified of the VIC's preferences for civilian prosecution?

• A. The SJA directly
• B. The CA through the SJA
• C. The VIC
• D. The civilian authority

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is who handles communicating a victim’s preference for civilian prosecution to civilian authorities. In military justice, the Convening Authority holds the responsibility for how a case is processed and coordinates with civilian prosecutors when civilian prosecution is an option. The Staff Judge Advocate acts as the CA’s legal adviser and liaison, carrying out the formal notification to civilian authorities. This channel ensures the victim’s preferences are conveyed through the proper authority and follow due process. The victim provides the preference, but the notification to civilian authorities is initiated and managed by the CA via the SJA, not by the victim alone or by the SJA alone.