Can a judge force a man to take half of his wife's pension upon her retirement in a divorce settlement?

No.  A judge will not "force" a man to take 50% of his wife's pension.  However, if the wife's pension rights accrued during the marriage, her pension is a marital asset which is subject to equitable distribution.  Therefore, it would not make any sense for a man not to accept his share--unless of course he voluntarily chooses to waive that right.    I am guessing that there are specific reasons in your case, which have caused you to ask that question.  I would be happy to have a brief telephone call with you, to get more facts.  Of course, there is no charge for that phone call.  My telephone number is listed below.    Please also feel free to take a look at our Firm Website (www.salvaggiolaw.net), which contains a lot of helpful information. I wish you the best.   David F. Salvaggio, Esq., SALVAGGIO LAW GROUP LLC (Telephone: 973-455-1220)