A general court-martial is a military court that handles serious offenses under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). It is composed of a panel of officers and, in some cases, enlisted members who determine the guilt or innocence of the accused. The court-martial can impose severe penalties, including confinement, dishonorable discharge, or even the death penalty for the most serious crimes. General courts-martial are convened by a commanding officer and follow specific procedures to ensure a fair trial. The accused has the right to legal representation, and the proceedings are similar to civilian trials, including the presentation of evidence and witness testimonies.