Generally, no one gets married expecting the relationship to end. Unfortunately, many married people don’t want to talk or even think about divorce, and this often leads to problems when the relationship dissolves. The news that Stevie Wonder has filed for divorce should remind our Colorado readers that it’s best to prepare for divorce before it happens.
A spokeswoman for the musician confirmed that Stevie Wonder filed for divorce from his wife of 11 years, Kai Millard Morris, on Aug. 3. The couple has two children together. It is unknown at this time why Wonder has chosen to leave the marriage, though he did cite irreconcilable differences. There is no denying that he is looking at a complex asset division if the couple doesn’t have a prenuptial agreement.
A child prodigy, Wonder is well known for such hits as “Superstition” and “I Just Called to Say I Love You.” His legacy is one that will be enjoyed for generations. However, his soon-to-be ex-wife may have some claims to that legacy, especially since they live in California. California is a community property state, and Morris will have a right to 50 percent of any assets acquired during the time the two were married.
Colorado has similar laws. If a couple in Colorado is unable to agree on who gets what, the marital assets will be split equitably; this doesn’t necessarily mean equally. The court will take a variety of factors into consideration, including how much each spouse contributed to the marital estate and the value of the property being split.
This is why it is critical to have a knowledgeable and experienced attorney negotiate the asset division, as well as any other issues that may come up, such as child custody, child support and spousal support.
Source: NoCo5.com, “Stevie Wonder files for divorce after 11 years,” Aug. 3, 2012
