There is no question that our military men and women who are serving in Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as other parts of the world, are performing a service that can never be measured or repaid. I have the greatest appreciation for these brave heroes. Unfortunately, we know that the battles that members of the armed forces face do not end when they leave enemy territory. Depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, long separations and readjusting to civilian life take their toll on military families. The sad truth is that the military divorce rate is higher than that of the general population.
In 2007, 3.7% of married Marines were divorced, up 0.4% from the previous year. For the Army population, the numbers increased from 3.3% to 3.5% in the same time period. The numbers constitute the highest divorce rate in sixteen years. And veterans’ groups believe these statistics underestimate the divorce rate because they don’t take into account divorces that occur after the husband or wife leaves the service or marriages that are on the brink of dissolution.
Military divorces involve factors not usually found in civilian situations. For example, under Texas law, divorce proceedings can be stayed during the entire deployment and sixty days after the soldier’s return home. And, in general, federal law will not divide property between a military spouse unless the marriage has spanned at least ten years of active service. In addition, prolonged time abroad can be used as an argument to determine the custody rights of the parents.
If you are in the military or a military spouse and you believe that your circumstances have led to the need for a military divorce, you should make sure you are aware of the laws that apply specifically to you and should speak with an Austin military divorce attorney, an attorney Houston military divorce lawyer or a San Antonio military divorce lawyer. With large military bases like Fort Hood and Fort Bliss located in Texas, the divorce lawyers at Bertolino LLP are highly experienced in this area. We also have divorce attorneys practicing in Killeen and Harker Heights. Make an appointment with one of our military divorce attorneys at our Austin, Houston, or San Antonio office today to discuss your situation. http://www.belolaw.com
