Navarre Military Divorce Lawyers

Serving Those Who Serve

At The Virga Law Firm, P.A., we understand the unique challenges that military members and their spouses face during a divorce. We are committed to providing effective representation and compassionate guidance to our military clients and their families.

We are dedicated to serving those who serve in Florida. We are committed to offering our services at a cost that is affordable and with the highest level of quality.

If you need legal representation for your military divorce, please contact us today at (800) 822-5170 for a consultation.

What is a Military Divorce?

A military divorce in Florida is a divorce proceeding involving at least one spouse who is an active-duty member of the United States Armed Forces or a member of the National Guard or Reserves. Military divorces are subject to both state and federal laws, and they often involve unique considerations compared to civilian divorces. Here are some common factors and aspects associated with military divorces in Florida:

• Residency Requirements: To file for divorce in Florida, one of the spouses must be a Florida resident for at least six months before filing. However, military members often have different residency rules, which can allow them to use their military base location as their legal residence for divorce purposes.
• Military Pension Division: One of the most significant aspects of a military divorce is the division of the military member's pension. In Florida, as in many states, military pensions are considered marital property and are subject to equitable distribution. The Uniformed Services Former Spouses' Protection Act (USFSPA) governs how military pensions are divided, and it allows state courts to award a portion of the pension to the non-military spouse.
• Child Custody and Visitation: Military service often involves frequent relocations and deployments, which can complicate child custody and visitation arrangements. Florida courts aim to make custody decisions based on the best interests of the child while taking the military member's service obligations into account.
• Spousal Support (Alimony): Spousal support may be awarded in a military divorce, depending on factors such as the length of the marriage, the financial situation of both spouses, and the sacrifices made by the non-military spouse due to the military member's career.
• Protection Under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA): The SCRA provides legal protections to active-duty military members, including postponing court proceedings while they are on active duty or stationed overseas. This can impact the timing and pace of a military divorce.
• Healthcare Benefits: Military divorces may affect the eligibility of the non-military spouse for military healthcare benefits, such as TRICARE. The Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) must be updated to reflect the divorce.
• Deployment and Custody Modifications: Deployments and relocations may require modifications to existing child custody and visitation agreements. Courts may need to adapt arrangements to accommodate the military member's service obligations.
• Family Support Requirements: Military regulations often require service members to provide financial support to their families. These requirements may be enforced during divorce proceedings, affecting the financial obligations of both spouses.
• Post-Divorce Relocation: Military members may be transferred to different bases or duty stations, potentially impacting post-divorce living arrangements for both parties and the enforcement of court orders.
• Resolving Disputes: Resolving disputes in military divorces may involve considerations of military benefits, survivor benefits, and other federal regulations. It's essential to consult with an attorney experienced in military divorce matters to navigate these complexities.

Overall, military divorces in Florida involve legal complexities related to military service, pensions, and family dynamics. Seeking legal counsel from an attorney with expertise in military divorce is highly recommended to ensure that the rights and interests of both spouses are protected throughout the process.

How Our Firm Can Help

Hiring an attorney from The Virga Law Firm, P.A. for a military divorce in Navarre, FL can provide several significant benefits. Here are some of the advantages when working with our team:

• Expertise in Military-Specific Laws: Military divorces involve unique legal complexities, such as the division of military pensions and benefits, which civilian divorces do not. Having an attorney who is well-versed in the Uniformed Services Former Spouses' Protection Act (USFSPA) and other military-specific laws is essential. We have the expertise to navigate these intricate regulations, ensuring that you receive a fair and accurate settlement.
• Understanding of Deployment and Relocation Issues: Military service members often face frequent deployments and relocations, which can complicate divorce proceedings. Attorneys from our firm understand the challenges posed by these circumstances and can help you develop custody and visitation arrangements that accommodate these unique challenges while protecting your rights as a parent.
• Guidance through Emotional Stress: Divorce can be emotionally taxing, and this is even more pronounced in military divorces due to the added stressors of service obligations. The Virga Law Firm, P.A. offers empathetic support during this challenging time, helping you make rational decisions and avoid making hasty choices that you may later regret.
• Asset and Property Division: Military divorces often involve complex asset and property division issues, including military pensions, retirement accounts, and healthcare benefits. Our attorneys have experience in valuing and dividing these assets fairly, ensuring that you receive your entitled share of marital property.
• Mediation and Negotiation Skills: We are skilled negotiators and mediators who can help you reach a mutually agreeable settlement with your spouse. This can save you time, money, and emotional distress compared to a contentious court battle.
• Legal Protections for Service Members: Service members have unique legal protections under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA). Our attorneys understand these protections and can help ensure your rights are upheld throughout the divorce process.
• Streamlined Legal Process: The Virga Law Firm, P.A. has a deep understanding of the local legal system and divorce procedures in Navarre, FL. We can guide you through the process efficiently, reducing the likelihood of costly delays or errors.
• Post-Divorce Support: Our commitment doesn't end with the divorce decree. We can assist you with any post-divorce issues that may arise, such as modifications to child custody or support arrangements.

Call (800) 822-5170 or contact us online today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you inside and outside the courtroom.