No matter the circumstances of your divorce, an attorney skilled in handling military divorces can make sure that complicated relevant laws are taken into account in order to minimize stress, and make sure that your rights are protected.
I am family law attorney Jacob Rupp-Zimmerman. At Rupp-Zimmerman Law, P.C., in Fort Collins, Colorado, I represent clients throughout Larimer County with military divorce. I use negotiation, mediation and litigation to resolve your legal issues.
Contact me, a Fort Collins military divorce lawyer, for a free initial consultation. My priority is offering compassionate and assertive representation that focuses on helping you move forward.
Colorado Child Custody Lawyer
Military divorce is governed by civilian divorce law — however, there are some additional relevant laws and circumstances that must be taken into account.
Generally speaking, the nonmilitary spouse is entitled to a portion of the military spouse's retirement benefits. Unfortunately, splitting military retirement benefits can be very complicated. Under Colorado law, two options are available:
- Net present value (NPV) calculation of future rights
- (Hunt formula), which is basically just a mandatory 50/50 split of military benefits accrued during your marriage
I have the skill, knowledge and experience necessary, including the ability to read complicated "leave and pay stubs", to help you evaluate these options and help you determine which option would best suit your unique circumstances. Factors in this decision include:
- Length of your marriage
- Your estimated life span
- Length of your or your spouse's military career
- Existence of other significant marital assets that could be used to offset value of military retirement
Additionally, even though you may care about parenting time above all else, I understand that child custody issues are complicated by mandatory deployments and relocations. I will help you maintain that important connection with your children through a flexible visitation schedule and orders for frequent telecommunication.
I can also assist in revising your survivorship benefits plan to reflect your divorce.
Legal Service Under the Servicemembers' Relief Act
Under the Servicemembers' Relief Act, you cannot be served divorce papers, or service for any other legal action, while you are on active duty or soon to be on active duty — you must be represented by an attorney to claim benefits under this Act.
For Your Concerns About Divorce, Contact My Larimer County Armed Services Law Firm
Contact me, a Colorado child custody attorney, to discuss your case. My office is located in the Opera Galleria building in downtown Fort Collins. Hours are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday. I accept all major credit cards and offer prearranged evening and weekend appointments.
