Like most major life events that happen while you serve in the military, divorce comes with a special set of considerations that you need to consider. While state law and local practices often govern divorce proceedings, there are some federal and military statutes that can put an extra strain on your family during this time.
How the military impacts a divorce
Many family law attorneys understand how serving in the military can impact your divorce proceedings. If you have installation housing, you may lose it within 30 days of the service member or other family members moving out. If the service member is serving out of the country, the military may pay the cost for the spouse to move home. In-state moves may have different rules or lack compensation.
Health care benefits also need consideration during a divorce. Losing benefits can dramatically impact the quality of life, but programs exist to make the transition into private health insurance easier. Children of the service member typically continue to receive benefits.
Getting a divorce in the military requires the consideration of several important procedures. Getting divorced overseas can create additional difficulties if a U.S. court won’t recognize the divorce. The Uniformed Services Former Spouse Protection Act may also protect former spouses and provide some benefits.
Solutions to problems that arise in divorce
Getting the right support for your military divorce ensures the entire process goes as smoothly as possible. Once you make the decision that divorce provides the best path forward, getting legal help ensures you have a resource to guide you through the process.