Guidance Through The Minefield Of Military Divorce

Military life is hard enough. When you’re also facing the end of your marriage, you may understandably feel lost at sea.

It’s no surprise that military divorce rates are high, given the challenges involved in maintaining a marriage under the stress of frequent and long-term separation. Divorce is particularly challenging for Virginia-based military families who must tackle a whole host of considerations that civilians don’t have to face. I am here to help you through it.

I’m the founder and solo practitioner at Betty Russo Law, P.C.. As a military divorce attorney with more than a decade of experience, I understand the many ways in which divorce is different when at least one spouse is in the military. I can guide you through the process and ease your burdens.

Divorce In The Military: What To Know

As with civilian divorces, military divorce cases require addressing property division, custody of the children, spousal support (alimony) and child support. However, military divorces are often more complicated.

Here are some examples of the added considerations and potential roadblocks you might face:

• The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act: This law gives military service members who are on active duty the ability to request that court proceedings, including divorces, be put on hold.
• Uniformed Services Former Spouses’ Protection Act (USFSPA): Under this law, spouses of military service members may be eligible for certain military benefits even after the divorce, provided they meet certain criteria.
• Military pensions: The USFSPA provides that military pensions are generally divided in accordance with state law, but there are nuances to this aspect of property division.
• Residency requirements: To get a divorce in Virginia, you must have lived here for a certain length of time. Special rules apply to those in the military.

I’m very familiar with these and other aspects of military divorce. Whether you are a service member or the spouse of a military member, you can turn to me for reliable guidance rooted in a compassionate approach.

You Can Count On Me

Divorce puts you in a vulnerable position. You deserve a lawyer you can rely on – one who will listen to you, respond to you in a timely manner and be there for you during this challenging time.

I focus my career on helping people in your shoes. I’m passionate about making a difference.

To discuss your concerns with an experienced military divorce lawyer me, contact me online or call CALL. I offer free 30-minute consultations. Serving Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk and surrounding areas.