Marriage and the Military

Are There Different Considerations When One Party Is on Active Duty?

You’re contemplating marriage and either you or your spouse are in the United States military. Are there any unique considerations that need to take into account? Are there different laws that will apply, that may have an impact on your impending nuptials?

Getting Married When You and/or Your Spouse is in the Military

Though active duty can occasionally present challenges within a marriage, the Department of Defenses reports that the majority of servicemembers have tied the knot. If you are both American citizens and the marriage will take place in the United States, there are generally no additional requirements to be met before your wedding. You must simply comply with all laws in the state in which the marriage ceremony will take place.

If, however, you wish to marry a foreign national, you may be required to take additional measures before you will be permitted to marry. In some foreign countries, either tradition or even the law may require the permission of the other party’s parents. Furthermore, you may be required to obtain the permission of your commanding officer before you legally marry a foreign national.

What Happens after Marriage When You Are in the Military?

In most respects, the rights of military couples are the same as those of civilian couples. If you marry a foreign national, you will still need to follow U.S. immigration laws to establish lawful permanent residency for your spouse. You will also need to take the proper steps to legally change a spouse’s name. Your spouse will be eligible for certain military benefits, which can be obtained through enrollment in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System, also known as DEERS.

Let Graham Family Law Help You Take the Right Steps in a Military Marriage

At Graham Family Law, we bring more than 20 years of experience to men and women in San Antonio and the surrounding communities who need proven divorce and family law counsel. We are skilled trial attorneys who can protect your rights before a judge and jury. We are also respected within the legal community for our ability to negotiate effective settlements for our clients. Call us at 210-308-6448 or contact us by email to schedule a consultation today learn more about marriage when one of you is in the military.

Handling Divorce and Family Law Matters throughout San Antonio and the surrounding communities, including Bexar, Kendall, Floresville, Wilson, Atascosa, Hays, Comal and Guadalupe counties, as well as the municipalities of Christine, Jourdanton, Kyle, Buda, Dripping Springs, Wimberley, Driftwood, Hays, Woodcreek, Canyon Lake, Bulverde and Garden Ridge