Military Divorce Support And Enforcement
If you are a military family and are in need of legal assistance with a divorce, child custody or separation agreements, Lesley Turmelle Abbott, P.A., can help. Having been raised in a military family, Ms. Abbott understands many of the unique needs attached to military service and provides knowledgeable representation for military families undergoing a divorce or dealing with other family law issues.
Lesley Turmelle Abbott, P.A., is located near the Patrick Space Force Base, formerly known as Patrick Air Force Base. She is familiar with the local community and can help you through this difficult process.
A Military Divorce Is Different
There are many challenges with a military divorce, ranging from issues of notice and jurisdiction to complex questions involving retirement accounts and pensions. If you or your spouse is in the military, you want an attorney who understands how the many special laws affect the process. They include the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), which is important if the servicemember is on active duty or overseas.
Another federal law that affects the property division is the Uniformed Services Former Spouses’ Protection Act (USFSPA), and there are likely to be issues involving health care through the TRICARE system. Ms. Abbott understands how these laws work and what needs to be done to protect your rights to these important benefits.
How Long Does A Military Divorce Take In Florida?
The duration of a military divorce in Florida can vary. It can often depend on the complexity of your case and whether both parties agree on critical issues. Generally, it can take several months to finalize a divorce. Still, factors such as deployments and legal intricacies can extend the timeline.
How Can A Military Spouse Protect Their Rights During A Divorce?
To protect your rights during a military divorce, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of both military and state divorce laws. You can also rely on the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) protections.
For more information about how you can protect your rights as a servicemember during a divorce, contact Ms. Abbott at 321-966-4375.
Experience With A Broad Range Of Divorce Issues
Ms. Abbott has substantial experience handling these issues during the sometimes turbulent situations that can develop during any divorce. She can help you with a wide range of matters in the context of a military divorce, including:
- Contested and uncontested divorces
- Collaborative divorce
- Complex divorces
- Timesharing/visitation (child custody)
- Relocation and move-aways
- Child support and enforcement
- Spousal support/alimony
- Division of assets and debts
- Property and marital settlements
- Modification and enforcement actions/contempt
- Paternity determinations
- Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
- Dependency actions (DCF)
Ms. Abbott understands the complex process of military divorces and the special concerns a military family faces during this process. She will assist you in understanding your options.
Is Your Spouse Entitled To A Share Of Your Retirement Benefits?
Your spouse’s entitlement to military retirement benefits can depend on factors such as:
- The length of your marriage
- The divorce laws in your state
Under the Uniformed Services Former Spouses’ Protection Act (USFSPA), state courts may view military retirement money as marital property. Ms. Abbott can help you evaluate how these rules apply to your situation.
How Does Military Divorce Affect VA Benefits?
It depends on the type of benefit in question. Disability compensation from the VA typically remains with the servicemember, as it typically can’t be subject to division. However, if you have children and you receive income through VA disability benefits, a court could garnish your wages to cover child support.
How Is The Survivor Benefit Program Determined During Divorce?
The Survivor Benefit Program (SBP) can be a significant consideration during a military divorce. If spouses elect the program during their marriage, a family law court may decide its continuation as part of the divorce settlement.
Military Divorce And Housing Benefits – Is Your Spouse Still Eligible To Live On The Base?
After a military divorce, housing benefits typically change and your nonmilitary spouse may lose eligibility to live on the base. The specifics depend on individual circumstances, such as the marriage’s length and whether children are involved.
Contact Ms. Abbott
Call her Satellite Beach office at 321-966-4375 to schedule your initial consultation today, or click here to set up an appointment.