The article examines the forensic characterization of evasion of military service by self-mutilation or in another way as a separate type of military criminal offenses that have become particularly relevant in the context of armed aggression against Ukraine. The need to form a scientifically sound and practically oriented methodology for their investigation is substantiated, which is based on the construction of a forensic characterization as a holistic system of typical signs of a crime. The main structural elements of the forensic characterization are determined: the identity of the criminal, the method of committing the criminal offense, the situation, information about the traces, and their interrelationships are outlined. Special attention is paid to the analysis of methods of evasion (self-mutilation, simulation of illness, forgery of documents, other deception, refusal to serve), typical motivations of offenders, the circumstances of the act and the trace picture. Statistical data on the dynamics of offenses under Art. 409 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine and examplesfrom judicial practice are provided. The emphasisis on the difficultiesin proving intent when investigating such criminal proceedings, as well as on the importance of an interdisciplinary approach that combines knowledge of criminal law, criminology, and military jurisprudence. The conclusion is made about the need to develop and implement a holistic methodology for pre-trial investigation to ensure an effective response to the growing number of such offenses. The presence of correlations between the elements of the characteristic is emphasized, which allows forming substantiated versions for the investigation. The need for a mandatory medical examination – VLK, to ensure the process of proof is emphasized. For the first time, a refined structure of the forensic characteristic of this type of crime is proposed, taking into account modern practice and martial law. The results of the study can be used as both a theoretical and practical basis for improving the methodology for investigating crimes provided for in Art. 409 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. The article has applied significance and is aimed at improving the methodology for investigating crimes against the order of military service.
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