“Today” show fans in Washington and throughout the country were shocked when Matt Lauer was fired. His employment was terminated due to sexual allegations made against him some time ago. Lauer is making headlines again, this time because he and his wife have apparently reached a divorce settlement.
Even under trying personal circumstances, it is often possible to achieve fair settlements in an amicable fashion when both parties are willing to cooperate and compromise, as needed. Washington is a community property state, which means the parties typically divide all marital property 50/50 in divorce. In Lauer’s case, which is pending in an equitable distribution state, he and his ex were able to negotiate an exchange of assets with which they are both satisfied.
The two were able to forge an agreement without formal litigation. She is keeping a horse farm while he is going to retain ownership of some property in New Zealand. They have also agreed to share child custody. They have three kids, ages 18, 15 and 12.
Lauer and his ex apparently saw no need to petition the court for child support; instead, they have agreed to share equal financial responsibility for their children’s needs. Not every Washington divorce is settled easily. Many spouses who are unable to resolve their differences get locked in long, drawn out court battles when they cannot resolve certain issues; however, the Lauer case has shown that, even in difficult situations, it is possible to avoid going to court. Property division and child-related issues seem to spark the most problems. Anyone in this state who is concerned about a particular divorce issue can seek guidance and support by requesting consultation with an experienced family law attorney.