Massachusetts readers likely are well aware of the tedious, often lengthy, divorce processes that celebrities find themselves immersed in. Unfortunately, any divorce can become lengthy, tedious and expensive when family law matters are not swiftly and amicably negotiated. Recent reports indicate that actress and singer Jennifer Lopez is currently working through some very common divorce matters, even after two years have passed since the couple originally split. The considerations that Lopez is currently working through may have applicability to many divorce cases.
Recently, Lopez filed court documents in regards to her husband Marc Anthony’s divorce petition, which was filed in 2012. The purpose of the recently filed documents include Lopez requesting that her legal name be returned to Jennifer Lopez, rather than her legal married name of Muniz, which is Anthony’s legal surname. Lopez is also seeking to extinguish the court’s ability to allow spousal support to be awarded on behalf of Anthony.
While most divorcing couples can relate to the issues of name changes and spousal support, another vital consideration in any divorce is whether children will be involved or affected by the process. Lopez and Anthony have two children together, 5-year-old twins, of which Lopez is also seeking joint legal custody and physical custody. Celebrity or otherwise, divorce can be difficult for children, especially if their best interests are not placed first during the process and beyond.
Many Massachusetts couples seeking a divorce will not have the added stress of media hype surrounding their divorce. However, even couples who are outside the limelight can find themselves facing very real considerations similar to what Lopez and Anthony are working through. Family law matters can be complicated, but they do not have to be stressful or volatile. With the right amount of cooperation, support and focus on what really matters, any divorce can be successfully resolved toward the best outcome possible for everyone involved.
Source: Fox News Latino, Jennifer Lopez Wants Her Name Back, Petitions Court In Divorce Documents, No author, Dec. 9, 2013