Who is the presiding officer in a general court-martial?

The presiding officer in a general court-martial is the military judge. The military judge has the responsibility to oversee the legal proceedings, ensuring that the trial follows established military law and procedure. This includes ruling on the admissibility of evidence, ensuring that the trial is conducted fairly, and protecting the rights of both the accused and the government.

Additionally, the military judge plays a critical role in instructing the members of the court on legal principles relevant to the case. This position is crucial as it helps maintain order and proper decorum throughout the proceedings, enabling a fair trial environment. The military judge is a trained legal professional and is distinct from other roles such as the senior enlisted member, commanding officer, or defense attorney, who each have different functions within the trial process.