The Unique Challenges Of Military Divorce
Last updated on September 12, 2025
If you are a member of the military or have a military spouse, you know that there are unique challenges to military service. Those challenges can certainly affect your marriage. Likewise, a military divorce can be a complex and emotionally draining experience. A knowledgeable military divorce attorney can provide invaluable legal guidance.
At the Cowan Law Firm, LLC, we understand the intricacies of military divorce. Founded in Dalton in 2003, our experienced military divorce attorneys are dedicated to providing compassionate and supportive representation. We help military families with the unique nuances that arise with the division of property and retirement accounts, as well as the child custody and parenting time determinations in divorce.
Understanding The Jurisdiction And Residency Requirements For Military Divorce In Georgia
When it comes to military divorce, jurisdiction and residency requirements can be complex. In Georgia, the court must have jurisdiction over the military member or spouse to grant a divorce. Typically, this means that one or both parties must have been a resident of Georgia for at least six months before filing for divorce.
However, if jurisdiction is dependent on a military member stationed at a Georgia base, they must have been stationed in Georgia for a year or more. But once a service member is stationed on a base in Georgia for over a year, they may be considered residents, even if they are not physically present in the state. Our divorce attorneys can help you determine whether Georgia has jurisdiction over your divorce and guide you through the process.
Child Custody And Visitation Considerations For Deployed Parents
As a deployed parent, child custody and visitation can be a significant concern. Georgia’s Military Parents Rights Act, officially entitled the Uniform Deployed Parents Custody and Visitation Act (UDPCVA), provides protections for deployed parents. It prevents military service from negatively impacting parental rights. It allows deployed parents to delegate their parental responsibilities to a family member or friend during their deployment. Our experienced family law attorneys can help you understand your rights under this law and develop a parenting plan that works for you and your family.
Dividing Military Retirement Pay In A Divorce?
Military retired pay is a valuable asset that can be divided in a divorce. Under the Uniformed Services Former Spouses’ Protection Act (USFSPA), military retired pay can be divided as marital property. However, the division of retired pay is not automatic and requires a court order. Our high-asset divorce attorneys can help you understand how the USFSPA applies to your situation and ensure that your rights are protected.
What Is The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) And How Does It Affect Military Divorce?
The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) provides protections for military members serving on active duty. Under the SCRA, military members may be able to delay or suspend certain civil proceedings, including divorce proceedings. Our military divorce attorneys can help you understand how the SCRA applies to your situation and ensure that your rights are protected.
Helping Military Families With Divorce In Georgia
At the Cowan Law Firm, LLC, we have extensive experience handling the complexities of military divorces. Founded in 2003, our lawyers have been representing service members in northwest Georgia for decades. Our military divorce attorneys understand the unique challenges that come with military service, including:
- Deployment and custody issues
- Division of marital property and debt
- Spousal support and alimony
Our divorce lawyers are dedicated to providing compassionate and supportive representation. Everyone’s circumstances are different. Whether you are filing for divorce from overseas, applying for TRICARE health benefits or believe that you qualify for military retirement pay, we can help you understand your rights and options. We take pride in our ability to connect with our clients on a personal level, providing individualized attention and care during difficult times.
Consult A Dalton Military Divorce Attorney
If you’re facing a military divorce, it’s essential to have an experienced military divorce attorney by your side. Our divorce lawyers are available by appointment for initial consultations. Call us at 706-420-2949 or send a message through our website to schedule a consultation today.