Preventive Law

PREVENTIVE LAW SERIES

Learn about legal assistance topics that commonly affect military members such as consumer affairs, family law, wills, or powers of attorney. The information provided is for educational and general information purposes only. It is not legal advice. Speak with a licensed attorney before relying on the information contained within the website to make a decision or take any action. Use the Legal Services Locator to find your nearest military legal office within the continental United States.

Did You Know?

Servicemembers Civil Relief Act

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) is intended to postpone or suspend certain civil obligations to enable service members to devote full attention to duty. The act does not apply to criminal matters. Reservists and members of the National Guard are also protected under the SCRA while on active duty. The protections generally begin on the date of entering active duty and terminate within 30 to 90 days after the date of discharge from active duty.

Wills

A will is a written document that allows you to determine how certain assets and property will be distributed upon your death. It also allows you to determine who will be responsible for distributing your property and paying your debts after your death.

Power of Attorney

A General Power of Attorney, while sometimes helpful, can also be dangerous. It gives someone else the legal authority to do almost anything that you could do. A Special Power of Attorney is more limited and gives someone else the legal authority to perform specific tasks on your behalf.

Family Care Plan

Family Care Plans (FCPs) are the cornerstone for readiness for members of the Armed Forces who have dependents. A FCP is a "blueprint" that shows your command how your family will be cared for in your absence — whether you are deployed, on temporary duty, or otherwise unavailable because of military obligations.

Family Support

You have a duty to support your dependents. The Navy is authorized to take action, including recoupment, courts-martial proceedings and dismissal, for failure to provide adequate and continuous support.

Exceptional Family Member Program

Legal Assistance is available for Exceptional Family Member Program education issues related to the Individuals With Disabilities Act and a free and appropriate public education.

Identity Theft

A Guide to the Exceptional Family Member Program

Combatting Identity Theft and Social Security Fraud

COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate: Evolving Guidance & Pr...

What You Should Know About the Navy’s Fraterniza...

Navigating Post-NJP Actions

Communication is Key to Supporting Victims

Military Claims Act—What is it and how does it ...

Fighting Fraud And Bad Deals: Consumer and Finan...

Tax Season 2021: What You Need to Know

Cutting the Cord & Contracts Abroad

Bring Your...Pet to Work: Are Fido Fridays Legal?

Divorcing in the U.S. While Overseas

Are You Prepared to Deploy/PCS? A Legal Readine...

​Storage Lien Enforcement & Eviction Protections

Marriage in Japan — Misconception and Actuality

VITA Connects Service Members to Tax Support

Tax Season: What You Need to Know

You’re a Mean One, Mr. Ethics Counselor —Holiday...

Navy’s 2018 VITA Program is Open for Business

Income Tax Frequently Asked Questions

Special Power of Attorney

Navy Releases New Online Legal Assistance Resour...

Avoiding Political Pitfalls This Election Season

Lending a helping paw to the legal community

Staying Out of Trouble During March Madness

Supporting RLSO Japan’s Legal Assistance Mission...

Power of attorney: Which one do I need?

Legal Services for Crime Victims

Tax Season: What You Need to Know

Five Things You Need to Know about Retaliation

A Focus on Legal Representation Outside the Cour...

Spot Delivery Car Sales

Storage Lien Enforcement & Eviction Protections