Divorces are often dramatic. Friends, family members, and especially children are often forced to take sides, only to have their choice scrutinized by busybodies who hypothesize on mere gossip. Divorces involving celebrities, prominent figures, and high net-worth couples are especially challenging as they tend to play out on a larger if not a national stage. These matters can have drastic effects on the couple's children who already face unique challenges and responsibilities.

The Costner Contentious Child Support Battle

As reported in an article published by Fox News in May of 2023, Christine Baumgartner filed for divorce from her husband and famous Yellowstone actor, Kevin Costner. The former couple's divorce has been messy, to say the least, and has been plagued most significantly by ongoing feuds regarding Costner's child support obligations. Although both parties requested joint custody of their three children, Baumgartner requested a whopping $248,000.00 a month from Costner in child support. This figure garnered significant media attention, exposing the couple's lifestyle that their three children had come accustomed to over the years. While the couple's dispute continues in the California court system, it calls to mind the impact that high-net-worth divorces can have on a couple's children.

Challenges Unique to High Net-Worth Divorces

Assets

High net worth divorces refer to dissolution proceedings that involve a couple with significant assets such as multiple properties, companies, intellectual property rights, copyrights, etc. Because there are more assets for the court to divide, these divorces often take longer to be finalized and require additional experts and forensic accountants. Some assets such as heirlooms, stocks, or artwork may also be hidden and difficult to find. In instances where one spouse is more financially vulnerable and the primary caretaker for the children, hidden assets can deprive children of funds they otherwise would have otherwise been able to eventually access.

Lifestyle Changes

High-net-worth families may be accustomed to a luxurious lifestyle which often comes with the perks of living in large homes, attending exclusive schools, enjoying luxurious vacations, and participating in costly activities. During a divorce, these privileges might be scaled back or significantly altered, which can be unsettling for the children who are already processing their parents' separation.

Future Planning Concerns

High net worth divorces often involve complex financial arrangements, such as trusts, inheritances, and business interests. Because some of these assets can be dissolved, divided, or lost due to litigation fees, what once was promised as future financial security for the children can disappear overnight.

How to Help Your Children in This Season

Even if your family has significant assets and opportunities for your children, a divorce will likely be a painful adjustment for them to process. While you may want to be their support system during this difficult time, they likely need to process things with a trusted adult who is outside of the situation. Finding a counselor or a therapist who has experience helping children process change can make all the difference.

A Compassionate Family Law Attorney Who Is on Your Side

If your high-net-worth divorce is exposing your family to unwanted gossip and public exposure, your children are likely suffering. Because your divorce will likely take longer than normal to finalize, it's important to work with a compassionate and highly experienced Family Law Team early on. No case is too difficult and we are here to help you navigate complexities such as asset division, child custody, child support, and alimony. We're here to fight for your family. Contact us today by calling (888) 535-3686 or by using our online contact form.