Organized by legal problem
Start with the problem in front of you.
Most people arrive with one specific worry — a pension, a deployment, a move across the country. These topics are grouped the way problems actually show up, not the way statutes are numbered.
Dividing what was earned
Questions about military retirement, savings, and how a career's value is treated.
Military Retirement DivisionHow retired pay is approached in a California divorce.Guide in preparation
USFSPAThe federal framework behind retirement division.Guide in preparation
DFAS & the 10/10 RuleHow payments are administered, and what the rule does and does not do.Guide in preparation
Thrift Savings PlanThe federal retirement savings account in a divorce.Guide in preparation
Children, duty, and distance
Problems that surface when orders, training, or deployment collide with parenting.
Deployment & Child CustodyParenting time when a service member deploys.Guide in preparation
PCS RelocationMoving with children after permanent change of station orders.Guide in preparation
Long-Distance Parenting PlansSchedules built for families living apart.Guide in preparation
Support and income
Issues about what military pay means for support obligations.
Child Support & Military PayHow military compensation factors into support.Guide in preparation
Spousal SupportSupport questions in a military household.Guide in preparation
BAH & AllowancesAllowances and how they are treated.Guide in preparation
Where and how a case proceeds
Procedural problems unique to families who move on orders.
Military Divorce JurisdictionWhich court can hear a military divorce.Guide in preparation
Residency & FilingFiling when home and duty station differ.Guide in preparation
Protections During Active DutyFederal protections that can affect timing.Guide in preparation
Related resources
- Military BenefitsThe financial and benefit side of these same questions.
- CaliforniaWhere a case is filed and what that changes.
- ResourcesPlain-language guides for military families.
These topics are general information for military families and are not legal advice.
Tell us which issue is yours.
A short description is enough. We'll help identify the military-specific pieces and what usually happens next.