Law.com’s Daily Business Review published an article on 11/14, in which Rebecca L. Palmer explores the dual roles of military personnel as service members and parents, emphasizing the high divorce rates and unique family challenges they face. Frequent relocations, deployments, and unpredictable schedules in military life contribute to strained family dynamics, particularly impacting those who are divorced with children. Palmer stresses the importance of adaptable parenting plans that address these unique military life factors.

“The Uniformed Services Former Spouses’ Protection Act (USFSPA) that guides the division of assets for service personnel recognizes the rights of the state courts to distribute military retirement pay and provides a method of enforcing the orders through the Department of Defense,” writes Palmer. “The division of assets, like civilian divorces, rules may vary from state to state, so it is best to educate yourself on the regulations of your jurisdiction or find a well-informed legal professional.”

Palmer’s article highlights the need for specialized legal guidance due to the complexities involved in military divorces and custody agreements.