Griffin Family Law, PLLC is a law firm in Florida specializing in family law, including military divorce cases.
Military divorce is a unique and complex legal matter that arises when one or both spouses are active duty service members, veterans, or retirees. It involves not only the traditional issues of divorce, such as property division and child custody but also military-specific matters, such as the division of military retirement benefits and the impact of military deployment on child custody.
Protecting your rights and assets in a military divorce is crucial, as the outcome can significantly impact your future financial stability and family life. This is where a military divorce lawyer can help.
At Griffin Family Law, PLLC, I have the knowledge and experience in military divorce law and regulations to provide guidance and advocacy to ensure a fair settlement for my clients. I understand the unique challenges of military divorce cases, and we are dedicated to providing effective legal representation for my clients.
I work to achieve the best possible outcome for my clients while recognizing the importance of maintaining a positive relationship with the military community. If you are going through a military divorce, don’t hesitate to contact my law firm for help.
Understanding Military Divorce in Florida
Military divorce in Florida can involve unique aspects not present in a civilian divorce. These include:
- Jurisdiction: When a service member is stationed in Florida, but their spouse lives in another state or country, determining which state has jurisdiction over the divorce proceedings can be challenging. This can depend on various factors, such as where the couple last lived together and where they consider their permanent residence.
- Service of Process: In military divorce cases, serving divorce papers to a service member currently deployed or stationed overseas can be complicated. Some specific rules and regulations must be followed to ensure the service member receives proper notice of the divorce proceedings.
- Division of Military Benefits: Military benefits, such as pensions and healthcare, are considered marital property and are subject to division in a divorce. However, some specific laws and regulations, such as the Uniformed Services Former Spouses Protection Act (USFSPA), govern the division of these benefits.
There are also several differences between military and civilian divorce, including:
- Residency Requirements: In Florida, a residency requirement is at least six months before a couple can file for divorce. However, military members and their spouses may be exempt from this requirement if stationed in Florida.
- Child Custody and Support: Military divorce can present unique challenges regarding child custody and support. For example, deployments and frequent relocations can impact the ability of the service member to fulfill their parenting responsibilities. Some specific laws and regulations govern these matters in military divorce cases.
- Pension Division: The division of military pensions is governed by the USFSPA, which sets specific guidelines for how pensions are divided in a divorce. This can be different from how pensions are divided in a civilian divorce.
Understanding these unique aspects and differences between military and civilian divorce is crucial for anyone going through a military divorce in Florida.
Protecting Your Rights and Assets
In a military divorce, protecting your rights and assets is essential, and having legal representation can be critical in achieving this goal. Here are some steps you can take with the help of a military divorce lawyer to protect your rights and assets.
Gather Financial Information
Ensure you clearly understand your family’s financial situation, including income, debts, and assets. This information will be crucial in determining property division and support payments.
Understand Military Benefits
Military benefits, such as pensions and healthcare, are considered marital property and are subject to division in a divorce. It is crucial to understand how these benefits work and how divorce may affect them.
Consider Custody Arrangements
Child custody can be challenging in a military divorce, given the potential for frequent relocations and deployments. Working with a lawyer to create a custody arrangement that works for your family’s unique circumstances is important.
Protect Your Credit
Protect your credit by monitoring your credit report and closing joint accounts if necessary.
Hire a Military Divorce Lawyer
Hiring a military divorce lawyer is essential to protect your rights and assets in a military divorce. A military divorce lawyer can help you understand your legal options, negotiate a fair settlement, and advocate for your interests in court if necessary.
How a Military Divorce Lawyer Can Help
A military divorce lawyer can be invaluable in protecting your rights and assets during a military divorce. Some of the ways I can help with your military divorce include the following:
Expertise in Military Divorce Law and Regulations
Military divorce involves unique legal issues, such as jurisdiction, service of process, and division of military benefits. I have the expertise and knowledge of these laws and regulations to provide effective legal representation.
Negotiation Skills to Reach a Fair Settlement
I can work with you to negotiate a fair settlement that protects your interests. I can also help you understand your legal options and work towards an acceptable resolution for all parties.
Advocacy in Court, If Necessary
Sometimes, it may be necessary to go to court to protect your rights and assets. I can provide representation for you in court and advocate for your interests.
Support and Guidance Throughout the Process
I understand that a military divorce can be emotionally challenging. I can provide support and guidance throughout the process. Throughout the legal process, I will be available to answer your questions, provide advice, and help you navigate the complexities of military divorce.
Let Griffin Family Law, PLLC, Help with Your Military Divorce
At Griffin Family Law, PLLC, I understand that going through a military divorce can be challenging and complex. That’s why I am here to help.
My law firm specializes in family law, including military divorce cases; I have the expertise and knowledge to protect your rights and assets during this difficult time.
I recognize the unique challenges of military divorce cases and am committed to providing my clients with effective legal representation and guidance. Whether helping you understand your legal options, negotiating a fair settlement, or advocating for your interests in court, I will work tirelessly to ensure you get the best possible outcome.
If you are going through a military divorce in Florida, please contact me at Griffin Family Law, PLLC. I can help protect your rights and assets and achieve a fair settlement. Let me help you navigate this challenging time and move forward with confidence.
