I am trying to find out the difference between the methods used in determing the valuation of pensions. I do not have an attorney anymore. We have been going through this for 5 yrs. Since then, he has become disabled since 2006. His attorney is suggesting to use the "Coverture" method for our pension division. We both work for Ford Motor Company and have pensions. However, he has contributory retirement as well. He was salaried and I am hourly. We have been married for 27 years. We have one adult child and one minor child from this union. He does not want to give me any portion of his pension benefits and wants to assign beneficiary to his children outside of our marriage. I thought it was the law just to divide everything equally. He is now disabled as of 2006 but has not retired. He has 30 yrs and I have 15. He was in the 3 yrs before our marriage although we were cohabitating 4 yrs prior to marriage. So...I am trying to find out what is the best method to use in effort to protect my interest, but primarily my two children to assure they can receive any benefits that I may be entitled in the event something happens to me. Please help!

To protect your interest, you probably need an attorney, especially one who is familiar with "qualified domestic relations orders".
This may provide some useful background information: http://www.dol.gov/ebsa/Publications/qdros.html

Thank You...very much appreciated!!!