When one or both spouses are in the military, the process can become even more complex due to unique regulations and benefits. What missteps during a military divorce could impact your life for years after your marriage ends?
Mistake 1: Not understanding military benefits
Military benefits can be intricate and varied, including pensions, healthcare and other entitlements. It is crucial to understand how these are divided in a divorce. If you do not, you might lose money or miss out on benefits. Make sure to educate yourself on the Uniformed Services Former Spouses’ Protection Act (USFSPA) and other relevant laws that govern military benefits in divorce.
Mistake 2: Ignoring specialized legal requirements
Military divorces have unique legal rules, like residency requirements and the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) that can affect the process. If you do not follow these rules, it could delay your divorce or make things harder.
Mistake 3: Rushing the process
You may want to finish the divorce process quickly to end the stress and uncertainty this process can bring up. However, rushing can lead to bad decisions, especially about custody, support and property. Take your time to think about each choice and how it will affect your future.
Mistake 4: Overlooking financial changes
Divorce will change your finances, and in a military divorce, it can be more complicated because of pensions and benefits. Know your financial situation and future needs. A financial advisor who understands military benefits can help you plan for your future after the divorce.
Mistake 5: Approaching the divorce process without support
Military divorces require specialized knowledge and expertise. Trying to handle it without professional help can lead to mistakes and poor outcomes. A skilled attorney with knowledge of military divorce can offer guidance about the unique laws governing military divorces and help you protect your rights.
Lanier Fountain & Ceruzzi can help you avoid these common military divorce mistakes
Avoiding these common mistakes can help you navigate a military divorce with confidence and ensure a fair outcome. We can help. Contact us today by filling out our contact form or calling our firm at 910-939-3585 for legal support tailored to military divorces.