As a person who serves in the United States military or who is married to someone who does, you know that this service can impact various areas of life. This is especially true when a divorce affects a military family. Divorce is difficult for all Florida families, and if you are facing the prospect of a military divorce, you would be wise to take the steps necessary in order to know your rights as a service member or the spouse of one.
Child custody is often one of the most contentious issues in a divorce, and military divorces are no exception to this. What will happen to your children is likely one of your main divorce-related concerns, and it is prudent for you to learn more about how a parent’s military service could impact the details of a custody order.
Important issues to consider
The ultimate goal of any child custody order is to protect the best interests of the children above all else. When one or both parents serve in the military, it is wise for parents to consider how the following could affect continuity of lifestyle for their children:
- Potential future deployments
- Future out-of-state transfers
- Temporary duty assignments
Many military members face the possibility of an out-of-state or out-of-country transfer at some point. When parents are working through the details of their custody and visitation arrangement, these matters could certainly affect the kids in many ways. Rather than dealing with these complications in the future, it may be prudent for you to include contingency plans and provisions in your custody order.
If you are in the military, your career choice should not have an impact on your right as a parent to have regular access to your children and a strong role in their lives. However, you may find it useful to seek legal guidance as you pursue a custody order that is fair, balanced and allows you to be an active parent, even after divorce.
The future of your family
The decisions made during your divorce will have a significant impact on your family for years to come. This is why it is smart not to allow temporary emotion to motivate your decisions on important matters regarding child custody and more.
Whether you are in the military or your spouse is, you will find great benefits in seeking a complete explanation of your rights before you initiate the divorce process. Child custody issues are complicated, but with knowledgeable guidance, it is possible to reach a solution that allows for your family to have a peaceful future.
