Military marriages and divorces bring their own set of challenges. One unique aspect is spousal support.
After all, the dynamics of deployment and frequent relocations can amplify the complexities for the nonserving spouse.
Impact on career opportunities
In Honolulu County, the median household income is $99,816. However, military spouses often face challenges in establishing and maintaining their careers due to the demands of military life. Frequent moves and the need to adapt to different work environments can hinder professional growth.
One example is the state-specific licensing or certifications many professions require. Military spouses may face obstacles in transferring these credentials across state lines. This creates barriers to employment and limits the career options available to them. The time-consuming process of obtaining new licenses with each move adds an additional layer of complexity, further impeding career development.
Another example is the career interruptions and resume gaps for the nonserving spouse. Employers may view these gaps skeptically. They affect the spouse’s marketability in the job market. Over time, these interruptions can accumulate, affecting the overall trajectory of the non-serving spouse’s career.
The financial implications of these challenges can further complicate discussions around spousal support, as the nonserving spouse may require additional support to overcome career setbacks.
Uncertain duration of service
Unlike civilian jobs, military service comes with a level of uncertainty regarding the duration of assignments. The potential for sudden deployments or reassignments can disrupt long-term financial planning for both spouses. This uncertainty can add stress to spousal support negotiations.
Military benefit systems
Military benefits, such as health care and housing allowances, can have direct implications on the financial support structure. Both spouses must be well-informed about these benefits and how they factor into alimony calculations.
Understanding military benefits and support systems is important for spouses facing the complexities of spousal support during divorce. The military’s unique structure and regulations can make the process less straightforward than in civilian life.