Shreveport Military Divorce Attorney
Dedicated Legal Support for Military Families in Shreveport, LA
Military life comes with unique challenges, and when divorce becomes a reality, those challenges can become even more complex. At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law, we understand the intricacies of military divorce and are committed to guiding service members, veterans, and their spouses through the process with clarity and compassion. If you or your spouse is serving in the U.S. military and you’re facing divorce in Shreveport, our experienced Shreveport military divorce lawyer can help you navigate the legal landscape with confidence.
Contact us at (318) 633-0186 to schedule your consultation and receive the support you need today.
Issues Involved in Military Divorce in Louisiana
Military divorces are governed by a combination of Louisiana state law and federal laws. While the process shares some similarities with civilian divorce, there are several key issues that make military divorces more complex:
Residency and Jurisdiction
One of the first questions in a military divorce is determining where to file. In Louisiana, at least one spouse must have lived in the state for six months before filing. However, for military families, deployment, reassignment, or living on base can complicate matters. We can help you determine if Shreveport has jurisdiction over your case.
Division of Military Pensions
The Uniformed Services Former Spouses’ Protection Act (USFSPA) allows state courts to divide military retirement benefits. However, dividing military pensions fairly requires deep knowledge of how these benefits are calculated and awarded.
Child Custody and Visitation
Active duty military parents often face unique challenges related to custody and visitation. Deployment, training exercises, and PCS (permanent change of station) orders can all affect parenting plans. Louisiana courts aim to prioritize the best interests of the child while accommodating the demands of military service.
Child and Spousal Support
Child support and alimony obligations are calculated under Louisiana law, but the military also enforces certain interim support obligations. Understanding how support is calculated and how enforcement differs for military service members is crucial.
Special Considerations of Military Divorce
The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA)
The SCRA offers protections to active-duty military members involved in civil litigation, including divorce. For example, it may allow for a stay of proceedings if a service member is deployed or otherwise unavailable due to military duties. Our Shreveport military divorce lawyer is well-versed in using the SCRA to protect the rights of service members.
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) and Other Benefits
Beyond retirement pensions, the division of military-related assets like the TSP and survivor benefits can complicate divorce settlements. We ensure that all assets and benefits are fairly accounted for.
Healthcare and Tricare
Depending on the length of the marriage and military service, a former spouse may be eligible for continued military healthcare benefits under the 20/20/20 or 20/20/15 rule. We help clients understand what benefits may be available and how to secure them.
Deployment-Related Parenting Plans
Military parenting plans must be flexible enough to account for deployments and frequent relocations. Our Shreveport military divorce attorneys help families develop parenting plans that address long-distance communication, visitation during leave, and caretaking responsibilities during deployments.
FAQs About Military Divorce in Shreveport, LA
Can I file for divorce in Louisiana if I’m stationed out of state?
Yes, if Louisiana is your legal residence or you are currently stationed in Louisiana (e.g., at Barksdale AFB), you may be eligible to file for divorce here.
How is military retirement divided in a divorce?
Under federal law, military retirement can be divided in divorce, but the non-military spouse is only eligible to receive payments directly from DFAS if the marriage lasted 10 years or more during active service. However, Louisiana courts can still divide the asset even if these criteria aren’t met.
What if my spouse is deployed and can’t attend court?
The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act may allow the court to delay proceedings until the deployed spouse is available. We can help navigate these delays and ensure fairness in the process.
Do military spouses lose health benefits after divorce?
It depends on the length of the marriage and military service. Under the 20/20/20 rule, a spouse may retain Tricare benefits. If the criteria aren't met, transitional coverage or private insurance may be necessary.
Can custody arrangements change due to deployment?
Yes, courts may issue temporary custody modifications during deployments. These arrangements are often revisited when the deployed parent returns.
Why Choose Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law?
At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law, we don’t just understand Louisiana family law—we understand the demands of military life. Whether you're stationed in Shreveport or within the surrounding area, recently separated from service, or married to an active-duty member, our goal is to protect your rights and provide you with clear, practical guidance.
- Decades of experience in Louisiana divorce law
- Deep understanding of military-specific legal challenges
- Local expertise with Shreveport courts and military resources
- Compassionate, responsive representation
Call (318) 633-0186 or contact us online today to schedule a confidential consultation with a seasoned Shreveport military divorce lawyer.
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“Treats clients like family.”
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