Entertainment news programs are awash with stories of celebrities dating, marrying, and divorcing. Sometimes, their lives can seem so detached and different from ours, its difficult to imagine them going out to pick up prescriptions, grocery shopping, and even going to court, but they do! Not all divorces end like that of Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes, with a quick filing and quick resolution. Some take their cases to court and even appeal decisions.
These appellate decisions can even be published by the courts, meaning they become an official interpretation of the law, and cited by attorneys and the court. There are two notable examples:
One such case is Barry Bonds, a former professional baseball player. (IRMO Bonds) This case deals with the validity of a prenuptial agreement, and the importance that it is entered into voluntarily. The decision in his case prompted the state legislature to enact a law in 2001 requiring time and opportunity to seek counsel for each party before the agreement is signed.
Another is the divorce of Frankie Valli, the lead singer for the Four Seasons. (IRMO Valli) This case dealt with a life insurance policy acquired during the marriage on husband’s life, put into Wife’s name. The court held that the state’s transmutation laws apply when deciding if the life insurance policy is community or separate property.
Our experienced attorney has represented clients in the Appellate Court and Superior Court in her over 22 years of practicing law. If you need assistance with a family court matter or an appeal of a family court decision, contact our office using the convenient form to the right.
