Connecticut Family Law Attorney Focuses on Serving Military Families
New London Military Family Law Attorney Puts More Than Two Decades of Experience to Work For You
Military family law can be extremely complex, as there are many unique rules that must be followed regarding serving papers upon a service member, child support, as well as custody and visitation. Here are some of the more common questions that arise regarding military family law.
How is a Summons and Petition for Divorce Served Upon a Member of the Military?
If the service member has an off-base residence, they can be served using whatever method is used in any other civil case. If their military address is used, military officials will make the service member available for service of process, assuming they are actually on the base. Military officials cannot serve process on base, but upon request they will often allow the service member to accept service voluntarily. If the individual is stationed overseas, they may be served by registered or certified U.S. mail if the host nation does not object.
How is Child Support Determined?
Child support depends on the pay of both spouses. Military pay consists of basic pay and possibly Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), Basic Allowance of Subsistence (BAS), Variable Housing Allowing (VHA) special skill pay, and bonuses. There is no set military allotment for family support, and generally, all pay and allowances may be considered in setting the support obligation.
Can a Service Member Win Custody of Minor Children?
As with any divorce and child custody consideration, it depends. If the service member is assigned to a unit that frequently deploys overseas, has irregular training schedules involving weeks spent in the field, or has other limitations that would affect their ability to care for minor children, they may be unlikely to gain custody.
Military duty can be an advantage regarding custody decisions, however, if scheduling and deployments are addressed in a positive way:
- Most military installations have excellent recreational facilities, day-care centers for those with normal duty hours, and active youth activity programs.
- The opportunity to travel to other states and nations often provides an opportunity for learning and enrichment that other children do not have.
Contact a New London Military Family Law Attorney Today
Do you have questions about military family law? Bruce A. Chamberlain Law Office has over 25 years of experience serving those who serve our country. Contact our firm online or call (860) 440-2846 to schedule your consultation today.
