Hey everyone. I just retired from the Air Force here in SC. I’ve been married for 19.5 years, and we have two kids. Recently, I asked for a divorce and moved into a camper to start the one-year separation period. My wife’s upset and just went to a lawyer downtown. I think this is a no-fault situation, but back in Oct 2020, while I was in Korea, I had an affair and told her immediately. We went to therapy and stayed together until now. I really want to keep things civil, let her stay in the house with the kids, and make this as smooth as possible. I’m wondering—do I need to hire a lawyer too? Am I missing anything here?
Yeah, you should definitely hire a lawyer. They’ll help with dividing assets and handling your military benefits. Don’t skip this step.
Luca said:
Yeah, you should definitely hire a lawyer. They’ll help with dividing assets and handling your military benefits. Don’t skip this step.
That’s what I was thinking. I just don’t want to mess this up, especially with the benefits stuff. Thanks for confirming!
Luca said:
Yeah, you should definitely hire a lawyer. They’ll help with dividing assets and handling your military benefits. Don’t skip this step.
Exactly. Too many people think they can wing it and regret it later when the terms are locked in.
Hey, just curious—what are military benefits in this case? Like, retirement stuff?
Riley said:
Hey, just curious—what are military benefits in this case? Like, retirement stuff?
Yep, stuff like pensions, healthcare, and any other retirement benefits. Those can be big in divorce settlements.
Riley said:
Hey, just curious—what are military benefits in this case? Like, retirement stuff?
Gotcha. Makes sense why a lawyer would be crucial here.
I’d also check out avvo.com to find a good lawyer if you don’t know where to start. It’s a solid resource.
Ira said:
I’d also check out avvo.com to find a good lawyer if you don’t know where to start. It’s a solid resource.
Oh, I’ve never heard of that. Thanks! I’ll look into it.
Ira said:
I’d also check out avvo.com to find a good lawyer if you don’t know where to start. It’s a solid resource.
Yeah, Avvo’s great. You can read reviews and see how experienced they are in family law.
What about moving back into the house? Would that help or hurt your situation?
Avery said:
What about moving back into the house? Would that help or hurt your situation?
Only if you want to. Legally, there’s no requirement for you to move back in.
Avery said:
What about moving back into the house? Would that help or hurt your situation?
That’s good to know. I was worried leaving might cause issues with custody or something.
Sounds like you’re handling this responsibly. Just stay active with the kids and keep paying the bills. That goes a long way.
Jordan said:
Sounds like you’re handling this responsibly. Just stay active with the kids and keep paying the bills. That goes a long way.
Thanks, that’s the plan. I’m trying to do this right for everyone involved.
Jordan said:
Sounds like you’re handling this responsibly. Just stay active with the kids and keep paying the bills. That goes a long way.
Totally agree. Being consistent with the kids will also help if custody gets discussed later.