The primary legal assistance provided service members is to prepare them for mobilization and deployment. There are four aspects of pre-mobilization legal planning: Wills, Powers of Attorney, Soldiers and Sailors' Civil Relief Act, and Reemployment Rights.

National Guard attorneys (Judge Advocate General Corps Officers) may provide limited legal assistance to National Guard soldiers and airman in accordance with applicable Army/Army National Guard or Air Force/Air National Guard Regulations. Traditional Michigan National Guard members (part time soldiers) should contact their major command JAG officer or legal office to determine what kind of assistance is needed.

It is important to note that JAGs cannot appear in civilian criminal or civil court on behalf of a service member on a non-military issue or action. They cannot draft real estate documents or divorce or separation agreements. However, because most National Guard JAGs are also civilian attorneys and have a vast amount of experience, they may answer general legal questions or render general advice.