Divorce for couples in Illinois or elsewhere is seldom easy, and extenuating issues involving children often make it all the more challenging. When people engaged in a child custody battle happen to be famous, things can get very stressful when their family business is aired to the nation. Former NBA player Scottie Pippen can likely relate to this. He has divorced from his wife of 19 years, and the two are currently battling over custody and child support.
The 51-year-old multiple championship winner apparently signed a prenuptial agreement before he and his former wife wed. Part of the agreement stated that if a divorce were to occur, Pippen would pay child support for any children they might have at the time. As it is, the now-divorced couple has four children together, but in a turn of events, Pippen has requested the court dismiss his prenuptial obligation.
Pippen has asked for full custody of his children. Since the children will live with him and he will be their primary caretaker if the court decides in his favor, he sees no reason to pay child support. Pippen’s net worth is said to be approximately $50 million after his successful 11-year career with the Chicago Bulls.
Most Illinois parents want what is best for their children. In situations like Pippen’s, emotions run high and tempers often flare when communication breakdowns occur. A skilled negotiator may be able to help maintain focus under such circumstances. As an advocate, an experienced attorney can keep discussions centered on the children’s best interests and work on behalf of a concerned parent to obtain agreeable solutions to child custody problems.
Source: newseveryday.com, “Scottie Pippen Divorce Update: Former NBA Player Demands Full Custody of All Four Children“, Miguel Vasquez, Oct. 25, 2016