New appointments were nearly always carpetbaggers and native radicals who could take the "ironclad" oath.

The generals complained that there were not enough competent native "loyalists" to fill the offices, and frequently an army officer was installed as governor, treasurer, secretary of state, auditor, or mayor.

In nearly all towns, the police force was reorganized, and former Federal soldiers were added to the force, while the regular troops were used for general police purposes and for rural constabulary.
Over the administration of justice the military authorities exercised a close supervision.

Instructions were sent out to court officers covering the selection of juries, the suspension of certain laws, and the rules of evidence and procedure.

Courts were often closed, court decrees set aside or modified, prisoners released, and many cases reserved for trial by military commission.