Representing Federal Employees and Their Spouses in Divorce

An in-depth look at the many issues raised in a divorce involved when representing a federal employee (current, former, or retired) or spouse, this is an invaluable, single-source brings together a wealth of information and practice insights from disparate sources that author Jessica Markham has gathered over two decades in practice.

Complex and detailed information is presented in a manner that is accessible and understandable. Each chapter begins by explaining the basic aspects of the topic followed by more detailed information and citations for further research. In addition to a wealth of useful practice tips, the book includes checklists, glossary terms, and definitions for easy reference, as well as sample documents and forms also available in downloadable format online.

This one-of-a-kind handbook thoroughly explains the major facets of the largest federal government pension systems:

• Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
• Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS)
• Foreign Service Retirement and Disability System (FSRDS)
• Foreign Service Retirement System (FSRS)
• Federal government’s defined contribution plans, including the Thrift Savings Plan

These primary benefit plans are explained at three distinct points when a federal employee may be involved in a divorce: during active employment, after separation from service but before retirement, and after retirement. The book also addresses issues related to death benefits, including pension survivor annuities, beneficiary designations, life insurance, and insurable interests, as well as other concerns when dividing pensions, such as maintaining health insurance after divorce and the effect of remarriage. This comprehensive guide also covers lesser-known protections and benefits offered to federal employees, retirees, and their spouses, such as leave, disability, long-term care insurance, and resources for victims of domestic violence, and briefly reviews litigation considerations such as determining income, garnishment, and obtaining documents from a federal agency.

Representing the Federal Employee in Divorce is a valuable resource for newer practitioners to learn the basics, while more seasoned family lawyers will find it a useful resource to keep on their bookshelf for quick access to the specific information needed in a particular case.