Unqualified Resignations - UQRs

Unqualified Resignations - UQR Testimonials:

Officer Resignations, Unqualified Resignations or UQRs, whatever you know the term as, resigning a military commission of any sort and for any reason can prove to be difficult. Resignation means you are giving up your commission completely, which you usually cannot do until your total service commitment, your period of obligated military service, has been completed. You can't just leave the military, as you may be able to in a civilian career or job. It is also important to point out that early separation (UQR) from the military for obligated officers are more difficult than for non-obligated officers, but they are possible if presented effectively.

There are many reasons an officer may want to resign and request a UQR including, but not limited to: early release for education, extreme personal or family hardship, and/or to pursue significant opportunities for service and professional advancement in the civilian sector. Overall, the mechanics of how resignations work are the same regardless of branch, however, Medical Corps (MC) Resignations (AMEDD Officer Resignations) can present some unique challenges and hurdles specific to that branch. Visit our Medical Resignations page for more information.

The regulatory and policy procedures required for an officer to resign his or her commission present significant challenges, time, and thorough preparation. Officer resignations often require recommendations from four or five levels of command and staff before final decision. There is also an extensive amount of background and advocacy needed to place a client in the best possible position for a recommended approval at each level of command. The entire UQR process can easily last months, and I am aware of cases which have lingered - unresolved - for years, when the officer has tried to go it alone.

If you are contemplating an Officer Resignation, Unqualified Resignation or UQR, or if you have already submitted your request and find yourself lost or bogged down in the system and need additional assistance — please give my office a call 214-363-1828 or Toll Free: 866 578-0164.


There is a proper and effective way to handle an officer’s resignation request. This is a step-by-step process that must be meticulously handled. First, it is absolutely essential that all relevant facts and circumstances be marshaled in order to prepare a compelling presentation. Second, the officer’s situation must be communicated in writing clearly, thoroughly, and in accordance with all applicable regulations and customs of the service if it is to succeed. And third, once the request is submitted through command channels, consistent, professional and expert follow-up is required to keep the process on track and moving forward to a favorable, timely resolution.

Again, please call my office for comprehensive representation, advice and assistance with your UQR resignation request 214-363-1828 or Toll Free: 866 578-0164.

I contacted Col. Meili as a fellow practitioner to gain some context and perspective on a pretty complex set of issues. Because I practice in a different field of law, Col. Meili's extensive expertise was invaluable and he was more than generous with his time. A skilled and dedicated professional who cares deeply about obtaining the best possible outcome for his clients, Bill's a leader in this field.

- Steffen Chapin


After an exhaustive search of military attorneys, I came across the name of Bill Meili. From my first email exchange and telephone call, I knew that Bill was the right person to handle my case. I had discussed my unique circumstance with a handful of other attorneys who felt it may be too difficult to achieve the outcome that I was seeking - but Bill was interested in me and my case, and wholeheartedly believed that we had the ball in our court. I could tell that Bill cared about me as a person and soldier, not just viewing me as a paycheck.

- Anonymous