On behalf of The Marks Law Firm, L.L.C posted in Legal Separation on Sunday, November 4, 2012
In situations when divorce becomes a necessity for a married couple, resolving litigation expediently is most often in everyone’s best interest. The more quickly that separation terms are finalized, the sooner both sides are able to begin their new lives apart. Children and questions of custody often complicate and draw out this process, but other factors can play a substantial role as well.
This week, new information arose regarding the very public divorce of acting stars Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher. The two separated over a year ago, but are reportedly “nowhere near a divorce.”
The important legal steps necessary for a fair and complete divorce settlement are not yet under way, as neither Kutcher nor Moore has indicated to lawyers a formal divorce filing. The two split last year after Kutcher had an affair; Kutcher is now publically dating a former television co-star, while Moore has kept a lower celebrity profile.
The allocation of money appears to be the primary roadblock on the path to a settlement. Kutcher is said to be reluctant to terms that take into account his increase in earnings in recent years. Currently he is the highest paid actor on television, bringing in $24 million last year.
Extending their separation without attaining a legal divorce may only complicate litigation for both, once it finally begins. Given that the two remain legally married, actions such as Kutcher’s new romantic exploits, changes in income, and even new property acquired while the two are living apart, can quickly come into play during negotiations, complicating matters for both sides. When full separation becomes necessary between two spouses, getting in touch with an attorney that specializes in divorce law can help expedite the beginning of a new separate, personal life.
Source: The Huffington Post, “Demi Moore, Ashton Kutcher Divorce: Exes Have Not Taken Any Legal Steps To End Marriage,” Nov. 1, 2012