As many people in Ohio understand, filing for divorce can be complicated. Despite its complexities, many couples feel that divorce is an option that will allow each member to lead their own separate but fulfilling life. When wading through the waters of divorce, however, there are many things to consider.
Among the decisions that need to be made is spousal support. Spousal support can be a very contested area of divorce. One spouse may not want his or her money going to an ex, while the other spouse may worry about maintaining an established lifestyle without the other’s income. One of the most talked about celebrity divorces – that of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver – is a perfect example of the divorce process, especially as it relates to spousal support.
Earlier this month, Shriver filed for divorce after Schwarzenegger came clean about fathering a child more than 10 years ago with a member of the family’s household staff. Last week, the film star and former governor of California made headlines once again when he reportedly requested that he not be ordered to pay any spousal support to his wife. Now, however, the Los Angeles Times reports that he has withdrawn that request.
While no reason has been given for the change of heart, it was reported that Schwarzenegger is now open to paying alimony to his wife of 25 years. His original response to Shriver’s divorce petition also requested that they split legal costs, but he has amended that request as well and will reportedly cover all costs. It will be interesting to see what the terms of this high-asset divorce will be.
Source: Los Angeles Times, “Schwarzenegger now open to spousal support for Maria Shriver,” Victoria Kim, 26 July 2011