Family Law for Military Personnel and Civilian Spouses
Military service raises unique issues in property division and child custody under Florida law, and both the service member and the spouse have special rights under federal law.
At Jeffrey S. Koster, P.L., we understand the nuances of military divorce and related matters of family law. Whether you are a member of the armed forces or you are the civilian spouse, we can assert your rights and protect your interests.
Lutz attorney Jeffrey Koster has represented active duty, reserve and retired military personnel in the Tampa Bay area, including officers and enlisted personnel of MacDill Air Force Base. Call us at 866-941-1325 or contact us online to arrange a consultation.
Tampa Military Divorce Attorney
Military divorces are actually conducted in Florida family courts and subject to Florida law regarding custody, child support, property division and alimony. However, you need an experienced trial lawyer like Jeffrey Koster who understands the special considerations that apply to service members:
- Military pensions — Florida courts treat military retirement funds as a marital asset subject to equitable distribution. The Uniformed Services Former Spouse Protection Act specifies that civilian spouses are entitled to a percentage of military pensions, up to an equal share, based on length of the marriage and overlapping military service.
- Military pay and benefits — Members of the military receive a housing allowance (BAH) and various types of pay such as combat pay, which count as income in the calculation of child support or spousal support. Ex-spouses may also be entitled to lifetime medical benefits, survivor benefits and other perks that should be accounted for in the divorce decree.
- Deployment — The Service members Civil Relief Act prevents a civilian spouse from taking unfair advantage in family court while the military spouse is deployed overseas or stationed in another state. Divorce or child custody proceedings can be delayed for at least 90 days, and often longer, to allow the service member to return to Florida and retain legal counsel.
Contact a Lutz Military Family Law Attorney Who Knows Your Rights
There are many other considerations specific to service the armed forces. Jeffrey Koster can advise you of your rights and give you the perspective and options you need to make informed decisions.
You will work directly with Mr. Koster, not a paralegal or associate lawyer. Based in Lutz, we serve clients throughout the Tampa Bay area and surrounding counties of west central Florida. Call 866-941-1325 for a free 30-minute phone consultation or e-mail us to schedule a one-on-one office consultation.
