Maryland Domestic Relations Orders & Retirement Division Attorney

Protecting Your Right to Retirement Assets After Divorce

Dividing retirement accounts during a divorce isn’t just about splitting numbers—it’s about protecting your financial future.

At The Law Office of LaSheena M. Williams, P.C., we help individuals across Montgomery County and throughout Maryland navigate the complex process of dividing retirement benefits through Domestic Relations Orders (DROs) and Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs). Whether you’re the spouse entitled to part of the retirement or the account holder, we ensure your interests are properly represented and your order is legally enforceable.

What Is a Domestic Relations Order?

A Domestic Relations Order (DRO) is a court order used to divide certain types of retirement benefits—like pensions, 401(k)s, or other employer-sponsored plans—as part of a divorce or separation agreement.

When a DRO meets federal legal requirements (typically under ERISA, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act), it becomes a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO), which allows the retirement plan to legally pay benefits to the non-employee spouse (known as the alternate payee).

Without a properly prepared and approved DRO or QDRO, retirement assets cannot be divided or distributed—even if your divorce agreement says they should be.

Why Retirement Division Requires a Specialized Order

Retirement accounts are often among the most valuable assets in a marriage. But they can’t be divided like a bank account or a piece of furniture.

Each retirement plan has its own rules, and federal law governs how and when benefits can be paid. A QDRO or DRO ensures:

• The correct share of the retirement account is transferred
• The receiving spouse can access their share at the appropriate time
• There are no unnecessary penalties or taxes
• The plan administrator has legal authority to divide the funds

Mistakes in drafting or failing to file a DRO can result in loss of benefits, delays, or legal disputes. That’s why it’s critical to work with an attorney who understands the nuances of retirement division in Maryland divorce cases.

We Handle All Types of Retirement Division Orders

At The Law Office of LaSheena M. Williams, P.C., we prepare, review, and submit Domestic Relations Orders and QDROs for all types of qualified retirement plans, including:

• 401(k), 403(b), and 457 plans
• Traditional and Roth pensions
• Federal Employee Retirement Systems (FERS/CSRS)
• Maryland State Retirement & Pension System
• Thrift Savings Plans (TSPs)
• Military pensions and military retired pay (via MPDOs)
• Private and union pension plans
• IRA and Roth IRA transfers (via separate mechanisms)

Whether you’re just starting your divorce or finalizing post-divorce paperwork, we’ll guide you through every step of the retirement division process.

Our Maryland DRO and QDRO Services Include:

✔ Reviewing your divorce settlement or marital settlement agreement

✔ Identifying which retirement assets require a DRO or QDRO

✔ Drafting a compliant order that meets plan and federal requirements

✔ Submitting draft orders for pre-approval by plan administrators

✔ Filing the order with the appropriate Maryland circuit court

✔ Ensuring final orders are submitted to and accepted by the retirement plan

✔ Following up to confirm benefit distribution is processed correctly

We also advise on complex or high-value retirement accounts, including situations involving unequal division, waivers, or lifetime survivor benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions About DROs and QDROs in Maryland

Do I need a QDRO if our divorce agreement already divides retirement?
Yes. The divorce agreement is not enough. A QDRO or DRO is a separate court order that the retirement plan requires to divide and pay benefits.

When should I file a DRO or QDRO?
As soon as possible after your divorce. Delays can result in lost rights—especially if the employee retires, dies, or takes a distribution before the order is approved.

Can I get help if my divorce was finalized years ago but no QDRO was filed?
Yes. We can assist with post-divorce QDROs to enforce your rights, even if your divorce occurred several years ago.

Why Clients Trust The Law Office of LaSheena M. Williams, P.C.

Dividing retirement assets requires more than just a standard divorce attorney—it requires an advocate who understands both family law and federal benefits law. That’s exactly what we provide.

Clients across Montgomery County and Maryland choose us for:

• Experience with Maryland and federal retirement division law
• Accuracy in drafting QDROs and DROs that meet all requirements
• Clear, compassionate guidance through complex procedures
•  Proactive communication with retirement plan administrators
• Timely follow-up to prevent delays or missed benefits

We’re here to protect your financial future—one order at a time.

Ready to Divide Retirement Benefits the Right Way?

Whether you’re in the middle of a divorce, finalizing your settlement, or fixing an old oversight, The Law Office of LaSheena M. Williams, P.C. can help you prepare and file the right retirement division order to preserve your rights.

Don’t risk losing what you’ve earned—or what you’re entitled to.

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