The Court Martial enforces laws under the Kenya Defence Forces Act 2012. Judge advocates, appointed by the Chief Justice, ensure proper functioning. The Act applies to members of regular and reserve forces, alleged spies, individuals in civil custody for service crimes, personnel serving in other countries per treaties, those accompanying Defence Forces on active service, and civilians attending Defence Forces Institutions or accompanying units on operations.

The Court Martial has jurisdiction over various service offences, including treachery, cowardice, disobedience, insubordination, and offences related to courts-martial and other authorities. They can also try civilian offences committed by individuals subject to the Act. However, they cannot exercise jurisdiction over civilians charged under the Sexual Offences Act.