Walsh v. Walsh

OPINION

James and Lee Walsh were divorced in 1980. Lee’s attorney drafted the divorce decree which the trial court adopted. James was not represented by counsel. The decree granted to Lee “one-half of [James’] pension with the United States Government.” Five years after the divorce, James chose to retire and receive his U.S. government pension. At that time, Lee claimed she was entitled to receive one-half of James’ entire pension, including that portion earned during the five-year period after the divorce.

James initiated a motion to clarify his and Lee’s rights under the divorce decree. The…