The overall divorce rate in the military was 3.1 percent in 2016. However, those who live or are stationed in Florida may know that the divorce rates are vastly different for men and women. In 2016, the divorce rate for male troops was 2.6 percent, and that was relatively unchanged from 2013. The rate for female troops increased from 6.2 percent in 2015 to 6.6 percent in 2016.
The divorce rate of enlisted female soldiers was even higher at 8 percent in 2016. The rate for enlisted men was 2.8 percent in 2016. While the overall divorce rate in the military was similar to the civilian population, the rates are calculated in different ways. To determine military divorce rates, a researcher would look at the number of people listed as married at the beginning of the fiscal year in the Pentagon personnel system.
That number is then compared to the number of people who file for divorce during the year. This information is both compiled and overseen by the Defense Manpower Data Center. Conversely, the civilian divorce rate is determined per 1,000 residents, and it does not include data from states such as California. In 2014, the civilian divorce rate was 3.2 percent.
Those who are in the military may face many of the same issues that civilians do when ending their marriages. However, there may be special rules as to when hearings can be scheduled or other leeway given to protect those who may be on active duty. A military law attorney may be able to provide advice about property division, child custody or other issues pertaining to divorce.
