First Responders Divorce Attorney in Columbus, Ohio

Police officers, firefighters, and other first responders face unique challenges in family law, particularly when it comes to pensions and retirement benefits. Sheldon’s years as a trooper give him a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by those in public safety—and for the complexities that come with their benefits.

One of the most important issues in first responder divorces is the Deferred Retirement Option Plan (DROP) through the Ohio Police & Fire Pension Fund (OP&F). DROP accounts, pensions, and other benefits are substantial assets, but they are also highly technical and must be handled with precision.

We help first responders and their families understand:

• How DROP works – and whether it is considered marital property.
• Dividing DROP and pensions – ensuring only the marital portion is divided, with proper tracing of contributions.
• The role of DOPOs – OP&F does not accept QDROs; it requires a Division of Property Order (DOPO) with very specific language.
• Tax implications – ensuring divisions are structured to minimize tax burdens.
• Long-term planning – helping you understand how divorce impacts your financial future.

We also address broader issues that first responders often face in family law cases, such as demanding work schedules, high-stress careers, and the impact those realities can have on custody arrangements.