The Complete QDRO Handbook, Fourth Edition

A comprehensive resource for effectively handling QDROs and working with all parties involved, this updated bestseller provides basic knowledge of all aspects of the substantive law of QDROs plus valuable, step-by-step guidance and advanced techniques for the drafting and approval process. It also covers division of military retired pay; federal, state, county, and municipal civil service pensions; non-ERISA plans such as IRAs; and Qualified Medical Child Support Orders. Whether you work with these retirement benefits in a divorce case frequently or only occasionally, The Complete QDRO Handbook is a must-have for your library. The Complete QDRO Handbook begins with clear definitions of the basic principles and concepts of employee benefit plans and ERISA. In subsequent chapters, the authors explain how to draft domestic relations orders and have them accepted as "qualified" by plan administrators. The book provides the necessary sample language and clauses, each explained with numerous comments. Other forms include model letters, forms, interrogatories, and checklists, plus guidance on reading an annual benefits statement. Forms are available for readers at an online library. Written for people who work with QDROs every day in a hands-on capacity -- lawyers representing divorce clients, Plan Administrators and their lawyers, state IV-D agencies using QDROs to collect child support, Family Court judges, and the paralegals, administrative assistants, and other support staff who work with them.