Military Family Law
Military Divorce Lawyer
El Paso & Fort Bliss
Serving the men and women of Fort Bliss and their families with specialized military divorce, custody, and support representation. Attorney Abbie Laine understands the unique challenges military families face.
Why Military Divorce Is Different
Federal Law Meets Texas Family Law
Military divorce is not simply a standard Texas divorce with a uniform involved. It is governed by a complex intersection of federal statutes — the Uniformed Services Former Spouses' Protection Act (USFSPA), the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), and the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) — layered on top of Texas community property law.
An attorney who does not understand these federal laws can cost you tens of thousands of dollars in retirement benefits, health care coverage, and housing allowances. At Laine Law Firm, PLLC, we have deep experience navigating these issues for Fort Bliss service members and their spouses. We also handle military child custody, military child support, and spousal support matters.
¿Necesita un abogado de divorcio militar en El Paso? Laine Law Firm ofrece servicios bilingües para familias de Fort Bliss.
What We Handle
Key Military Divorce Issues
Military Retirement Division
Under USFSPA, Texas courts can divide military retirement as community property. We ensure the correct formula is applied and that DFAS direct pay orders (if applicable under the 10/10 rule) are properly drafted.
Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP)
The SBP election must be made within one year of divorce. Missing this deadline permanently forfeits a potentially significant monthly annuity. We track this deadline and ensure it is addressed in your decree.
SCRA Protections
The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act allows deployed service members to request a stay of divorce proceedings. We help both service members and spouses understand and navigate these protections.
BAH & Military Benefits
Basic Allowance for Housing, commissary access, and TRICARE health coverage all change at divorce. We advise on the 20/20/20 rule and help former spouses understand what benefits they retain.
Deployment & Child Custody
Texas law protects deployed parents' custody rights. We draft temporary custody orders that preserve your parental rights during deployment and ensure automatic restoration upon your return.
Military Child Support
Military income — including BAH and special pay — is factored into Texas child support calculations. We ensure all income sources are properly accounted for and that support orders are enforceable against military pay.
Benefits Eligibility
The 20/20/20 Rule Explained
Former military spouses who meet all three criteria qualify for full military benefits including TRICARE, commissary, and exchange privileges:
If you meet the 20/20/15 rule (20 years marriage, 20 years service, 15-year overlap), you may qualify for a one-year transitional TRICARE benefit.
Common Questions
Military Divorce FAQ
Serving Fort Bliss Families
Get Help From an El Paso Military Divorce Attorney
Military divorce is too complex to navigate without an attorney who understands both federal military law and Texas family law. Laine Law Firm, PLLC provides the specialized guidance Fort Bliss families need.
Free Military Divorce Consultation
Protecting Fort Bliss Families Since 2009
Call Laine Law Firm, PLLC today for a free, confidential military divorce consultation.
915-200-4316