Military Divorce

Military divorces involve unique legal considerations and challenges due to the complexities of military life, including deployment, relocation, and the division of military benefits. At Woolsey Morcom, we are experienced in handling military divorce cases and understand the specific legal provisions and protections that apply to service members and their spouses. Our attorneys provide comprehensive legal representation to ensure that your rights are upheld and that all relevant factors—such as the division of military pensions, deployment issues, and custody arrangements—are addressed effectively and efficiently.

One of the most significant aspects of military divorce is the division of military retirement benefits. Under the Uniformed Services Former Spouses’ Protection Act (USFSPA), state courts have the authority to treat military pensions as marital property, subject to equitable distribution. However, how and when those benefits are divided can depend on a variety of factors, including the length of the marriage, the overlap with military service, and whether the marriage meets the “10/10 rule” (10 years of marriage overlapping with 10 years of service). Our attorneys help clients understand how these rules apply to their specific situation and ensure that military benefits are properly valued and divided.

Military divorce cases also often require an understanding of federal laws, such as the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), which provides certain protections for active-duty service members. This can include delaying court proceedings if a service member is deployed or otherwise unable to participate in the process. Woolsey Morcom’s attorneys are knowledgeable about these laws and are adept at navigating the legal landscape to secure favorable outcomes for our clients. We take special care to ensure that both the service member and the non-military spouse are treated fairly and that no one is disadvantaged due to the realities of military life.

We handle all aspects of military divorce, including the equitable distribution of marital property, spousal support, and the impact of military service on child custody and time-sharing arrangements. For example, when one parent is subject to deployment, custody agreements may need to include specific provisions regarding temporary care, communication with the child, and decision-making authority during the absence. We work with our clients to craft detailed, flexible parenting plans that can adapt to the unique demands of military service while preserving the parent-child relationship.

In addition to representing clients in military divorce cases, Woolsey Morcom also provides guidance on related issues such as post-divorce modifications and enforcement of court orders. These issues can be especially important for military families, who may relocate frequently or experience changes in financial circumstances due to reassignments or retirement. Our firm is well-prepared to help clients adjust to these changes and modify existing agreements when necessary.

We understand the unique challenges that military families face, and we are committed to providing the legal support necessary to address those challenges and achieve a fair and just resolution. By working with us, you can be confident that your military divorce will be managed with the experience, dedication, and sensitivity required to protect your rights and interests—both now and in the future.