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Military divorce in Texas refers to the legal process by which a service member or their spouse legally separates and dissolves their marriage in accordance with both state law and the additional requirements set forth by federal law. Military divorces present unique challenges that differentiate them from civilian divorces, such as jurisdictional issues, division of military pensions, service obligations, deployment, and compliance with both the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) and the Uniformed Services Former Spouses' Protection Act (USFSPA). Residents of Texas who are in the military or married to a service member must navigate both Texas family law and certain federal protections designed specifically for military families.
Seeking legal help is especially important in military divorce cases because these matters can be far more complex than a standard divorce. Common situations where legal assistance is essential include:
Military divorce in Texas is governed by both Texas Family Code and relevant federal statutes. Key aspects to understand include:
A military divorce is the dissolution of a marriage where at least one spouse is an active duty, reserve, or retired member of the U.S. Armed Forces. It differs from civilian divorce due to unique rules about jurisdiction, division of military benefits, deployment-related custody challenges, and additional federal laws that apply.
Jurisdiction depends on residency and where the service member is stationed. Typically, Texas courts have jurisdiction if one spouse has lived in Texas for at least six months and in the filing county for 90 days. Special rules apply for those stationed outside Texas but claiming Texas as their residence.
The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) allows active duty members to pause divorce proceedings if their military duties prevent them from participating in court. Courts generally accommodate deployment schedules when handling divorce cases.
Under the USFSPA, Texas courts can treat military retirement pay as marital property and divide it accordingly. The actual percentage each spouse receives depends on the length of the marriage, years of service, and overlap between the two.
Yes, if the court awards it. The division depends on the number of years you were married and in the military, as well as how much of your service occurred during the marriage. The 10-10 rule allows direct payment from the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) if you were married for at least 10 years overlapping with 10 years of service.
A former spouse may qualify to continue TRICARE coverage if the marriage lasted at least 20 years, there were 20 years of military service, and the periods overlap by 20 years (the 20-20-20 rule). Otherwise, options are limited and coverage may end soon after divorce.
Texas courts make custody determinations based on the best interests of the child. Courts may consider military obligations like deployments and relocations, and may put in place temporary custody plans or allow virtual visitation when necessary.
Yes, child support obligations remain in force regardless of deployment. The court may use military pay and allowances to calculate support. Nonpayment can result in garnishment of military wages or other legal penalties.
Yes, you can file in Texas if you meet the residency requirements, even if your spouse is stationed abroad. Service of process and other notices must comply with special rules for overseas military members under federal and international law.
The SCRA protects active duty members from default judgments, lets them request delays while on duty, and provides additional safeguards to ensure their rights are not prejudiced by their military obligations.
For further support and information regarding military divorce in Texas, you may find the following resources helpful:
If you are considering or facing a military divorce in Texas, start by gathering all relevant information about your marriage, finances, property, and military service records. Make a list of your questions and concerns, especially about benefits, custody, and support. Next, contact a Texas family law attorney with experience in military divorces to review your case and explain your rights and options. If you qualify, reach out to your local installation's Legal Assistance Office for guidance. Remember that acting early and being informed will help protect your interests and ensure a smoother divorce process.
