Divorce is rarely quick and easy, especially for high asset couples. One example of this is the Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher divorce. As many Minnesota residents may recall the high profile couple announced their split more than a year ago. So why is it taking so long?
Well, the answer seems to be fairly simple. The couple has significant financial holdings, and there is simply no prenuptial agreement to guide them.
According to news reports, the long, and certainly costly, divorce negotiations are all about money. As every one knows, both Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher have had successful careers that have earned them millions of dollars each. Unfortunately, neither party seems willing to part with any of that money. The couple hoped to settle these issues before going to court, but it now appears that the famous ex-couple is on the fast track to litigation.
There are a number of reasons to have a prenuptial agreement. While many believe that prenuptial agreements are for the wealthy, there are actually many non-wealthy couples that have prenuptial agreements. In addition to protecting assets and shielding a party from assuming the debts of the other party, prenuptial agreements also help to clarify rights and responsibilities, which is the key to avoiding long and costly disputes in a divorce case.
If a couple decides that a prenuptial agreement is right for them it is important to take the time to ensure that the agreement is valid. The court originally scrutinized prenuptial agreements because they were viewed as a tool for wealthy individuals to protect their wealth from their partner. While courts still review prenuptial agreements carefully, and there are still conditions that are considered invalid, every state allows such agreements.
Source: The Huffington Post, "Demi Moore Filing Divorce Papers In Split With Ashton Kutcher," March 6, 2013.
No Comments
Leave a comment