Divorce and family law matters are challenging for anyone—but for servicemembers stationed at MacDill Air Force Base, the legal process often involves unique military-related issues. As a U.S. military veteran and attorney, I understand the culture, commitments, and complexities of military life. Our veteran-owned and woman-owned law firm proudly serves members of the Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force, as well as military spouses, in Hillsborough County and throughout Florida.
At Fighter Law, we combine deep knowledge of Florida family law with firsthand military experience. We know how PCS orders, deployments, and military pay structures affect divorce, child support, custody, and property division.
Unique Challenges in Military Divorce
Military divorce cases often involve factors that civilian cases do not.
- Jurisdiction issues when spouses live in different states or countries
- PCS and deployment-related custody modifications
- Calculation of income that includes Basic Pay, BAH, BAS, incentive pays, and bonuses
- Division of military pensions under the Uniformed Services Former Spouses’ Protection Act (USFSPA)
- Enforcement of support orders through the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS)
- SCRA protections for deployed or reassigned servicemembers
Residency and Filing Requirements for Servicemembers
Under Florida Statute 61.021, at least one spouse must live in Florida for six months before filing for divorce. Military members can meet this requirement by being stationed in Florida, even if their home of record is elsewhere.
Child Support for Military Parents
Florida’s child support formula considers both parents’ incomes, the number of overnights with each parent, and the child’s needs. For servicemembers, this means your Leave and Earnings Statement (LES)—including BAH, BAS, and any special pays—will be factored into the calculation. We work to ensure child support is fair, accurate, and consistent with both Florida law and military regulations.
Custody and Timesharing Plans for Military Families
Military life is unpredictable, but Florida law still requires a detailed Parenting Plan. For servicemembers, this may include:
- Virtual visitation arrangements during deployments
- Timesharing adjustments during leave periods
- Provisions for rapid changes due to PCS orders
Dividing Military Retirement and Benefits
Military pensions are valuable marital assets. We handle complex issues such as:
- 10/10 Rule for DFAS direct retirement payments
- Survivor Benefit Plan elections
- VA disability pay offsets
Protections Under the SCRA
The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act offers critical safeguards, including delaying proceedings if military service prevents participation and preventing default judgments.
Local Court Process for MacDill AFB Cases
Most cases are heard at the Hillsborough County Family Court in Tampa. We are familiar with the local judges and court staff, giving our clients a strategic advantage.
Why Choose Fighter Law
- Veteran-owned and woman-owned—we share your values and understand military culture
- Proven experience handling complex military family law matters
- Board-Certified Criminal Trial Law Specialist leadership
Contact Us Today
If you are stationed at MacDill AFB or married to a servicemember, we can help. Call (407) 410-4324 or contact us online to schedule your confidential consultation.
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