Most people are highly critical of spring-autumn marriages, wondering about the motives of both parties involved. It should come as little surprise then that young Courtney Stodden and her mother both received a lot of negative press when Courtney married. She was only 16 years old, but her mother signed off on her marriage to her then 50-year-old husband, Doug Hutchinson.
Now, only six years later, the pair have filed for divorce after several close calls in the past. This time, it appears that the separation will last, though the two are trying to maintain a friendship throughout the divorce.
Over the last weekend in April, Stodden celebrated her impeding single life by enjoying a Divorce Party with friends at a Las Vegas casino. The teen bride turned reality celebrity has given statements to the press indicating that she and Hutchinson are doing their best to keep things amicable during the divorce. Divorces involving couples with higher assets often turn into contentious fights over them.
The Hutchinson-Stodden divorce is unique in many ways
The celebrity news world went crazy in late 2013 when it was revealed that the older man had not required a prenuptial agreement. At the time, the couple was talking about divorce. Media speculated that Courtney could end up with a substantial portion of his $3 million net worth. Even if the divorce remains amicable, she could stand to get a decent amount of his current net worth.
However, it is unclear how the divorce will go when the two actually finalize the end of their marriage. From the difference in age to the scrutiny of their union, this marriage and divorce are unique on many levels.
The situation is further complicated by the fact that the two are currently working on a movie together. Reports indicate that they are continuing to work together and are in daily communication.
In some manner, their willingness to put aside the dissolution of their marriage to continue working together could be a positive examples for couples divorcing in California. Particularly if both spouses have an ownership interest in a business or major project, setting aside issues in favor of preserving your business interests is often a wise move.
Working with an attorney during a high asset divorce is wise
Even in the most amicable of situations, working with an experienced California divorce attorney is the best way to protect yourself. If you and your spouse co-own a business or have other complex financial assets, an attorney can help ensure the division of assets is fair. Don’t risk financial instability.