How to Separate From a Military Service Member

Breaking up is never easy, and the rates of military divorce is astounding. However, there are certain steps that you need to do to ensure that you are not going to lose everything in a military divorce. A military divorce is very different than a civilian one.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A phone
• The internet

1. 

   A miltary divorce and separation is very different than a civilian. The first thing you should remember is that the military does not recognize a separation. If you are separated from your spouse, you still have all the same rights as you did when you were together. That's right, you still have access to the commissary, the exchange, and medical.

2. 

   Next, get a separation agreement. This is very important because it protects both of you, and it sets the foundation of your separation and divorce. Also, it can prevent a lot of fights. Make sure you talk about base housing if you live in it. It depends on the branch and the command, but MOST times, you can still live in base housing, even if your spouse does not want to. It is even more likely if you are on the lease.

3. 

   If your service member does not abide by the separation agreement or is doing something that is harmful either physically or financially, call his chain of command. Sometimes, his/her chain of command may stand by their service member and when that happens go talk to his chaplain or family advocacy. Family advocacy' s only job is to protect the family, utilize them.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to get a separation agreement as soon as possible.
• Talk to JAG
• Don't sign anything unless you have read it, understood it, and agree to it.
• If your service member is being physically harmful (even mentally, go talk to his chain of command)
• Do not be scared to call the MPs if he is being physically aggressive.

[jhkcpa]

on 11/10/2009 Great article on how to separate from a military service member. 5*