Military Spouse Rule.

As a military spouse who originates from Florida and who has used military spouse rules to waive into other states' bar associations, I would like to thank you for your updates on Florida's adoption of a military spouse rule.

The challenges that military spouses face when it comes to employment are real and disheartening. I never intended to become the spouse of an active duty service member--otherwise, I might have chosen a career path that didn't require state-specific licensure. I have had periods of unemployment because our military assignment didn't last long enough for me to apply for a waiver into my state's bar association. (At one point, we moved three times in 10 months.) I applied for other types of positions but was constantly told that I was "overqualified." I strategically settled on volunteer opportunities to broaden my resume outside the realm of law. I have even had periods of separation from my husband and family because I couldn't continue to keep gaps in my resume or to allow my skills to deteriorate. During those times, I came back to Florida and kept two separate households so that I could continue to practice law.

I am incredibly grateful that my husband is currently stationed in a state that has a military spouse rule and that our duty assignment has lasted long enough for me to not only apply to the state bar but to also secure a job and to work as an attorney. Certainly, other military families have had similar experiences.

How wonderful it is that things are becoming easier for those spouses...