In the event of a divorce

[sadisticsurfer]

I am an American citizen married 28 years to a German national! My wife and I were married in a German Court of Law and documents were prepared and submitted in accordance to US Military Law regarding marriage to a foreign national. We have been residing in Germany since we were married! My time in Military Service warrants no Military Retirement Pension. We have a son that is 26 years old living in the same household but is employed and attending no school. My spouse is also employed and has been for 30 years. I have been working in the middle east now for 5 years as a civilian contractor paid by the US Government. In 2005, my wife was given her parents house where my wife and I took out a mortgage on the house to increase the living space for my wife, son and I to reside and her parents to remain in the house. There is no prenuptial agreement regarding assets. The residence is located in the Rheinland Pfalz Area if State law is relevant.

My question is if my wife or I ever decide on getting a
divorce, do I have any financial claims or financial responsibility!

 

[Michael Wechsler]

An answer is impossible to provide. I don't know where you were married, where you have been living and which court may have jurisdiction over a divorce. Your matter is probably much more complicated than the ordinary and you may need to discuss your thoughts with someone who specializes in divorce concerned nationals and German law. Best of luck and hope you don't need to cross this bridge!

 

[sadisticsurfer]

Thank You for your quick reply and professional guidance!

 

[Michael Wechsler]

No problem - my understanding is that you can get divorced in the US but, quite honestly, I don't know all the details surrounding how this might work. I've heard that the US recognizes foreign marriages and will also be able to terminate (I think Florida is a popular state) but you've got many special situations here, including being married in Germany, living there, and the question of whether US law should apply. There is also the question as to where you want to live. Many issues here... best of luck.