Family Matters

Resources on divorces, child support, adoption, custody, domestic violence, and estate planning.

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Child Support and Veterans Benefits - FAQs

Questions about what can or can't be done to collect child support from your Veteran's Benefits? This article covers some of the most Frequently Asked Questions on this topic.
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Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) for Surviving Spouses, Children, and Parents

Learn about this tax-free monthly benefit paid by the VA to certain eligible survivors of military servicemembers and veterans.
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The Stateside Legal Advocate Tool Kit

Below are several toolkits and resources that will help you assist a veteran in need. They include links to specific laws, regulations, and veteran resources. Please contact us if you know of a helpful tool that is not included here. 

 

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Family Law Overview

"Family law" is the term lawyers use to describe laws that affect families. 
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VA Disability Compensation and Divorce: Facts and Fallacies

Frequently asked questions for advocates regarding VA disability compensation and how the courts address it in divorce, family support, garnishment and military pension division.
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Adoption and the Military

The Department of Defense (DoD) has stated that family support is critical for service members. It supports service members who decide to adopt children and tries hard to support families during the adoption process.
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Overview of Servicemembers Civil Relief Act

A brief overview of SCRA legal protections for activated servicemembers, with links to more details.
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The Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children

Frequent moves and deployment can create problems for children of military families who are still in school, as a result of different rules and requirements between school districts.
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Domestic Violence Overview/FAQ

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Domestic Violence.
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Divorce

Question:

My husband and I are getting a divorce after 44 years of marriage. I have a 70% disability rating and TDIU. Is he entitled to half of my disability?

 

Jim's Reply:

Divorce is never that simple. When you enter the court to finalize the divorce the magistrate will have each of you complete financial statements. Your monthly VA disability payments will be added in as real income and any divorce settlement will be made from that or those figures. 
 

Many vets argue that their disability money isn't on the table and that isn't correct. Although our disability money is exempt from taxation, it counts as income when we complete financial statements. Good luck!