How to search for AWOL: check and track status in AWOL lists?

How to search for AWOL: check and track status in AWOL lists?

The search for soldiers who have left their units without permission is carried out according to a clear procedure defined by legislation and internal orders of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. In such cases, the person is declared wanted and their details are entered into special registers used by the command and military law enforcement agencies. However, it is important to know how to find yourself on the list of deserters, because not everyone ends up there — it often depends on the decision of the command, which is made taking into account the circumstances and length of absence. Therefore, it is important that the AWOL list is checked in a timely manner — this allows you to understand the further course of action.

What is AWOL and why are lists kept?

AWOL is unauthorised absence from duty, i.e. leaving the service without proper permission. It can be punished by both disciplinary and criminal liability. Information about military personnel who have left their place of service is added to the lists. The main purposes of keeping these lists are:

• Recording the fact of desertion.
   
• Case status: search, opening of an official investigation, etc.
   
• Simplifying communication between the unit, the Military Prosecutor's Office and the Public Prosecutor's Office.

A key step in the process of resuming service is checking the data on desertion, as it allows you to understand not only the possible legal consequences of the situation, but also to determine a plan of further action to avoid liability. Therefore, it is worth finding out in advance how to check the status of desertion so that, if necessary, you can act quickly, legally and without risk.

How to search for AWOL: the main ways to check your status

Many people are concerned about the standard question: where to look for information about AWOL, how to find information, and whether it is possible to do so without an official request. 
The main ways to check your status are:

1. Contacting the unit headquarters. For a military serviceman, this is the easiest and most effective way to find out if he is on the list.
    
2. Check with the military law enforcement agencies. Often, people do not understand how to search for AWOL, but this is done by the military law enforcement agencies, which have up-to-date information about military personnel, so you can contact this agency to obtain the relevant information.
    
3. Data in the Unified Register of Pre-trial Investigations. With the help of a lawyer, you can check whether there are any proceedings under Article 407 of the Criminal Code.
    
4. Indirect signs. Another way to track down a AWOL is to pay attention to restrictions that may indicate the presence of a military personnel on the relevant list (refusal to remove from the register, lack of payments, summons to the police, etc.).

The presence of AWOL status has a dramatic impact on the future plans of military personnel. Therefore, it is worth promptly searching for information that will allow you to avoid liability, prepare legal arguments, and initiate the procedure for cancelling the status. 

Checking the list of AWOL on official websites

Checking information on official websites is always an effective and reliable method, especially if it concerns the presence or absence of AWOL status. Such portals are usually not open, but you can submit a search request. For example, to the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine or the Unified Register of Service Investigations. If you have difficulties finding services or submitting requests, you should contact a military lawyer. A specialist will help not only find relevant information, but also provide recommendations for removing the status and returning to service.

How to find yourself on the AWOL list: tips for servicemen

Check official resources: the very first source of information is the websites of the Ministry of Defense and military prosecutors' offices.

Contact the command or military enlistment office - often the status can be known even without the lists being published. The command or representatives of the TCC can provide such information.

Get legal advice - a military lawyer will help you find out if you are on the lists, help with verification, and suggest further steps to resolve the situation.

Where to find information about AWOL in wartime?

Currently, it is best to look for information on official sources, that is, send requests to the Ministry of Defense, URPI, ILOS, etc. But before that, you should contact the command, because it often tries to provide this information on its own in order to resolve the situation at the unit level. If you do not understand where and how to look for information, it is best to contact a legal specialist who will help with analyzing documents, determining status, and providing recommendations for further actions.

When do you need legal help to find AWOL?

Legal support is necessary if you cannot independently find information about the status of AWOL or if there are doubts about the legality of the wanted announcement. A specialist can also help with analyzing documents, submitting requests to military structures, or appealing the unit's decision. When the situation concerns a future military serviceman and his family, legal advice will help you act promptly, thoughtfully, and within the law.