Deployment & Child Custody –
“Will Deployment Cost Me Custody of My Kids?”
This fear keeps many service members awake at night. The truth? Deployment alone can’t strip your parental rights – but you need to handle it correctly. Here’s what every military parent must know:
1. The Military Parents Protection Act (MPPA)
Your key safeguards:
Courts can’t permanently modify custody just because of deployment
Must revert to original orders within 90 days of return
Requires temporary parenting plan during deployment
2. Creating a Deployment Parenting Plan
Your plan should address:
– Virtual Visitation (Zoom/phone call schedule)
– Caregiver Designation (who covers your parenting time)
– Decision-Making Authority (medical/school decisions)
– Reintegration Plan (transitioning back post-deployment)
3. Common Deployment Mistakes to Avoid
Not formalizing temporary arrangements (verbal agreements aren’t enough)
Failing to document communication attempts
Assuming the other parent will be reasonable
4. When the Other Parent Deploys
Your rights:
– You may get temporary full custody
– Can request proof of active deployment
– Should still facilitate virtual visitation
5. Special Considerations for:
– Combat Deployments (limited communication)
– Frequent TDY Assignments
– Guard/Reserve Parents (different rules may apply)
6. Coming Home? Here’s What to Expect
– File to reinstate your custody order immediately
– Courts typically favor returning to pre-deployment arrangement
– Be prepared for transition period (kids may need time to readjust)
Deployment Doesn’t Mean Losing Your Kids
We help military parents protect their rights before, during, and after deployment.
