On behalf of Stange Law Firm, PC posted in High Asset Divorce on Friday, May 30, 2014.
It was reported today the divorce of actress Liberty Ross and director Rupert Sanders has become final and that Ross received a favorable divorce settlement. Many of our Missouri readers may remember hearing that the couple filed for divorce in early 2013 shortly after a cheating scandal went public. Photos of Sanders kissing actress Kristen Stewart were published by the media. Now, entertainment news sources are reporting that Ross was paid “guilt money” as part of the divorce settlement.
What exactly is meant by “guilt money” and whether these reports are accurate is not clear. It could be that Sanders actually felt guilty and was thus generous during the property and asset division process. Or, it might be that the two had some sort of infidelity clause in a prenuptial agreement. Adultery can affect divorce proceedings in a variety of ways.
In Missouri, adultery can be relevant in a divorce both for child custody and property division purposes.
Adultery may affect a child custody dispute if the adulterer flaunted an affair in front of children, for example. This behavior might be viewed by a judge as not being in the best interests of the children.
In terms of property division, a spouse who is requesting a significant award of property after having an affair that resulted in the marriage’s demise might not fall into a judge’s favor. Additionally, it will need to be taken into account during the property division process if a spouse spent marital assets on an affair.
The affect that adultery has on the divorce process can be both varied and complex. It is important for individuals to talk to their family law attorneys about any related concerns.
Source: UPI, “Liberty Ross and director Rupert Sanders have finalized their divorce,” Veronica Linares, May 30, 2014
