Maria Shriver Files for Divorce from Arnold Schwarzenegger Citing Irreconcilable Differences

By Nottage and Ward on July 8, 2011

The Los Angeles Times reports that Maria Shriver filed for divorce from Arnold Schwarzenegger on Friday, July 1, ending the couple’s 25 years of marriage. Shriver cited “irreconcilable differences,” and also requested joint custody of her and the former California governor’s two minor-aged children. The couple also has two other older children.

In May, the couple announced their separation, followed by the stunning news that Schwarzenegger had fathered a child with a former household staff member. In addition to her custody request, Shriver also specified that certain property should be considered separate, including miscellaneous jewelry obtained and earnings made after her separation from Schwarzenegger. Reportedly, the couple does not have a prenuptial agreement.

Schwarzenegger has allegedly said that he is willing to give Shriver a “very generous divorce settlement,” even more than what California law requires of him, according to The New York Post. California is a “community property” state, meaning all assets collected during a marriage are equally divided in the event of a divorce. However, it is reported that Schwarzenegger is considering giving Shriver more than that. He is estimated to be worth of $750 million. The exact amount of the couple’s divorce settlement has not been made public, but talks between their lawyers have been reported to have been going on over the past two months.

At Nottage and Ward, our Chicago divorce lawyers can thoroughly explain your legal options to you if you are considering a divorce. We can help you understand how property division in Illinois works, and answer any questions you may have regarding child custody. To learn how our skilled attorneys can provide the legal assistance you need, call 312-332-2915 today.