Angelina Jolie’s decision to file for divorce from Brad Pitt likely surprised many people in Virginia. However, there is more to the story than just the irreconcilable differences that led to the split. Speculation continues to grow about child custody matters and how they will divide their Hollywood income.
Pitt and Jolie met in 2004 when filming “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” in 2004. At the time, Pitt was still married to Jennifer Aniston. Since then, Pitt has earned around $315.5 million before taxes. He received a spot on the list of top celebrity earners in 2016 when he made $31.5 million in that year alone. Combined, Pitt and Jolie made $555 million since they met. Given their incomes and that both partners have been married before, it is speculated that they have a prenuptial agreement.
If a prenuptial agreement exists, the assets each had prior to their marriage would classify as sole property. The prenup would determine how the assets acquired during their marriage would be divided. The couple was together for many years before marrying, and they bought large assets like property as they have homes in France and New Orleans.
Jolie is seeking full custody of the children, and problems may arise if Pitt wants to split custody or seek full custody himself. If Jolie is the primary caregiver, Pitt may be expected to pay child support. The divorce process could take months, but both parties have reportedly expressed interest in quickly finalizing everything.
Divorcing couples often wish to avoid litigation in order to resolve matters in a timely fashion and keep details private. If spouses cannot reach a divorce settlement, mediation or negotiation might help them reach a compromise. When dividing assets and figuring out child custody matters, one might wish to consult an attorney.