Reliable And Stern Counsel For Military Divorce Cases

Last updated on May 29, 2026

As a military divorce lawyer in Michigan, Lisa D. Stern understands the unique challenges military families face during divorce proceedings. Military divorce involves issues like military pension division, military retirement benefits and military custody issues. Military parenting plans and military health insurance after divorce are also critical components.

Her firm, located in Bloomfield Hills and serving Metro Detroit, provides legal services and solutions for military members and their spouses. She adeptly handles various aspects of family law, including divorce for military members, military family law and servicemember divorce rights.

Lisa’s experience, spanning nearly three decades, has equipped her to handle the challenges military families face, including military deployment and custody and military absence considerations. She offers personalized attention to each client, understanding their concerns and providing assertive advocacy with grace and poise.

The Complexities Of Military Retirement Benefits

Lisa understands the intricacies of military retirement benefits in divorce. The Uniformed Services Former Spouses’ Protection Act (USFSPA) governs the division of these benefits, and the 10/10 rule is a crucial consideration.

This rule requires that the couple be married for at least 10 years, and the military member must have served for at least 10 years for the former spouse to receive payments from the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS). Below are some key considerations for military retirement benefits:

• The USFSPA allows state courts to divide military retirement benefits as marital property.
• The 10/10 rule determines whether a former spouse is eligible to receive a portion of the military member’s retirement benefits directly from DFAS.
• The SCRA divorce protection and military spouse divorce benefits must also be considered in the division of military retirement benefits.

Military pension division is a critical aspect of divorce. Lisa’s knowledge as a military divorce lawyer allows her to help clients pursue a fair share of the benefits they deserve.

Custody And Parenting Time Challenges For Military Families

Military deployment can impact child custody arrangements, and Lisa is experienced in addressing these issues. Temporary custody during overseas assignments and military family care plans are essential considerations.

Michigan courts consider the best interests of the child when making custody decisions, taking into account the military member’s service and potential deployments. Lisa can help develop a military parenting plan that addresses the challenges of military service and ensures the child’s needs are met. She works closely with her clients to create a plan that is flexible and adaptable to the changing circumstances of military life.

Relocation Issues And Other Military-Specific Considerations

Military relocation and custody issues, including Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders and interstate jurisdiction, can be complex. Lisa is knowledgeable about developing strategies for maintaining parent-child relationships during separations and navigating international relocation considerations.

Other concerns that Lisa can assist with include base housing implications, military health care benefits (TRICARE) post-divorce, Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) options, VA disability pay and its treatment in divorce, and military allowances (such as BAH) and their impact on support calculations.

Take Control Of Your Military Divorce

If you are a military member or spouse facing divorce, it is crucial to seek seasoned counsel from a lawyer who understands the complexities of military divorce. Contact Lisa D. Stern today at 248-973-7842 or through her online contact form to book a consultation. Do not hesitate to take the first step toward protecting your rights and interests and paving your path forward.

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