Fort Lauderdale Military Divorce Lawyer
Strategic Guidance for Service Members and Their Families
Military divorce brings a layer of complexity that civilian divorces do not. Service members and their spouses often face unique legal and logistical challenges involving deployments, military pensions, housing benefits, and time-sharing arrangements. At Haber Blank, LLP, we are proud to represent those who serve and their families with the care, respect, and legal skill they deserve. As your Fort Lauderdale military divorce lawyer, we help you understand your rights under both Florida law and federal military regulations while guiding you through every step of the divorce process.
Navigating Jurisdiction in Military Divorce
One of the first questions in any military divorce is where to file. Because service members are frequently relocated, jurisdiction can be a complicated issue. Florida allows military members or their spouses to file for divorce in the state if at least one party has been stationed or residing here for six months prior to filing. We help confirm the correct jurisdiction and ensure that your divorce is filed in a location that makes sense legally and practically. If you or your spouse is deployed or living out of state, we take extra steps to coordinate communication and appearances to avoid unnecessary delays.
Understanding the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA)
The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act provides legal protections for active-duty service members involved in civil matters, including divorce. Under SCRA, a divorce proceeding can be delayed if a service member’s duties prevent them from responding or appearing in court. We work within these guidelines to balance the need for legal progress with respect for military obligations. Whether you are the service member or the civilian spouse, we make sure SCRA protections are properly applied and that your rights are safeguarded during the process.
Division of Military Benefits
One of the most complex aspects of a military divorce is the division of military retirement and benefits. Under the Uniformed Services Former Spouses’ Protection Act (USFSPA), military pensions can be treated as marital property and divided in divorce, but the specifics depend on several factors including the length of the marriage and overlap with military service. We work with financial professionals to calculate the marital portion of military retirement pay, determine eligibility for benefits like Tricare, and ensure that survivor benefits are addressed when necessary.
In addition to pensions, we also address issues like housing allowances, Thrift Savings Plans, and other forms of military compensation. Our goal is to make sure the division of property is fair, transparent, and compliant with both federal and state law.
Time-Sharing and Parenting Schedules for Military Families
When children are involved, custody and time-sharing become more complicated if one or both parents are on active duty or subject to sudden deployment. Florida courts require a parenting plan that outlines how decisions will be made and how time with each parent will be structured. For military families, this may include special provisions for long-distance parenting, virtual communication, and transfer of care during deployments.
We help craft parenting plans that work for military lifestyles while protecting the bond between parent and child. If the non-military parent is concerned about stability or transitions, we help address those issues thoughtfully. We understand how to present these matters to the court in a way that supports both the child’s best interests and the realities of military service.
Child Support and BAH Considerations
In military divorces, child support is often calculated using the same Florida guidelines as civilian cases, but the service member’s full pay—including base pay, Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), and special incentives—must be accurately reported. We help ensure that all sources of income are considered, and that child support orders reflect what is fair and reasonable. If adjustments are needed due to a change in station, rank, or deployment, we assist with modifications and enforcement actions as necessary.
Alimony and Relocation Issues
Spousal support may also be a factor, especially in long-term marriages where one spouse has sacrificed career opportunities due to military relocations. Florida law takes into account the financial need of one spouse and the ability of the other to pay. We evaluate alimony requests carefully and present arguments based on current and future financial realities. If relocation is on the table due to new assignments or retirement, we help clients address the legal requirements under Florida’s relocation laws and work toward a solution that preserves relationships while respecting military demands.
How We Handle Military Divorce at Haber Blank, LLP
Military divorce requires a firm understanding of both family law and military-specific rules. At Haber Blank, LLP, we provide personalized legal representation that accounts for the unique pressures and responsibilities of military life. We take time to explain your options clearly, outline possible outcomes, and keep you informed throughout the case. Our experience allows us to anticipate complications and resolve them before they become obstacles.
We know that divorce is difficult under any circumstances, and the added stress of military service can make it even harder. That is why we bring a steady, knowledgeable presence to every case we handle. You will never have to wonder where your case stands or what comes next—we keep you involved and prepared at every stage.
Representing Fort Lauderdale’s Military Community During Divorce
Located in a region with many active-duty personnel, veterans, and military families, we are honored to serve those who serve our country. Whether you are based at a nearby installation, recently returned from deployment, or living abroad, we have the experience and resources to represent you effectively in a Fort Lauderdale divorce. We understand the demands of military life and are committed to making the legal process as smooth as possible for you and your family.
If you are in the military or married to someone who is, and you are considering divorce, we are here to help. At Haber Blank, LLP, we offer experienced legal counsel, practical solutions, and a deep understanding of military divorce law. Contact us today to speak with a Fort Lauderdale military divorce attorney who will guide you with clarity, respect, and determination.
