USCG Judge Advocate General (U.S. Coast Guard) The U.S. Coast Guard Judge Advocate General (JAG) is a legal officer within the U.S. Coast Guard, serving as a part of the Department of Defense and functioning under the Department of Homeland Security for non-military law enforcement duties. Their responsibilities encompass providing legal advice to Coast Guard commanders, representing the service in court-martial proceedings, handling claims against the Coast Guard, and ensuring adherence to military justice and regulations. The Judge Advocate General is appointed by the President of the United States and confirmed by the Senate, serving as a statutory member of the Coast Guard’s senior leadership team.