An explanation of beneficiary designations and income tax consequences related to ERISA and qualified plans during divorce. A divorce process can be complicated.Here's an in-depth checklist at what to expect during a federal employee divorce process. To assist our members, the Middlesex County Retirement System has produced a sample Domestic Relations Order. NYSLRS must have an approved DRO on file, and proof of divorce, to make direct pension payments to an ex-spouse of a member. Fill out the contact form or call us at to schedule your free initial consultation. When ERISA is silent on an issue, courts have applied federal common law to fill in the gaps.