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Kutcher/Moore Divorce Stalls Over Money

On Behalf of | Oct 24, 2012 | Divorce |

While Ashton Kutcher’s relationship with former “That 70’s Show” co-star Mila Kunis may dominate headlines right now, his divorce may become center stage fairly soon. As reported by examiner.com, Kutcher’s settlement negotiations with his soon-to-be ex-wife Demi Moore have not been going well. Apparently the sticking point has been money; primarily the large paycheck Kutcher receives from CBS for his role on the comedy “Two and a Half Men.” He is reportedly the highest paid actor on television, and the division of that income may contribute to the impasse.

Public sentiment over the dispute is fairly diverse, with some believing that Ashton should just write a large check and move on, and others contending that Demi is simply being a vindictive ex-spouse.

Under the Ohio Revised Code, income earned by either spouse during the marriage is presumed to be marital property (and thus subject to division) unless it meets one of the statutory exceptions. Assuming that his TV income is at issue, Ashton would have to prove that this income is separate property under Ohio law (e.g. income earned from an inheritance, during legal separation, before the marriage, etc).

While the parties may want a quiet settlement, the alternative (a court trial over property division) would be a public spectacle.

Even for couples who don’t make millions each year, reaching amicable agreements on property division can be beneficial. Indeed, they won’t make headlines if disagreements boil over into court, but they stand to save a great deal of money (and emotional energy) by resolving their differences through negotiation.

Source: Examiner.com, Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore’s divorce could turn ugly fast. October 21, 2012

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