Divorce in the #MeToo Era

YUMA, Arizona. The #MeToo movement has changed the lives of many. For women, it has been a banner of empowerment, giving a voice to those who have experienced sexual harassment and misconduct. Yet, the #MeToo movement has had an impact on some marriages. As men in power have been outed for their actions, some wives have had to reckon with the misconduct of their husbands. For many, this news has come as a shock. For some, the news leads to divorce.

After over 60 women in Hollywood accused Harvey Weinstein of sexual misconduct, Georgina Chapman, his wife, announced that she was divorcing Weinstein. People Magazine
reports that she stands to receive $15 to $20 million as part of the divorce settlement. Chapman has also asked for primary custody of the children. Could Weinstein’s misconduct have played a role in the settlement?

Women who find themselves aligned with men who have been accused of misconduct not only face personal embarrassment, but their livelihoods can also be impacted by these actions. Women who own their own brands might face backlash from customers if they stand by their husbands. Women who learn about their husband’s misconduct often face tough challenges. They may struggle as their worldview is drastically changed, and their personal lives are turned upside-down as a result of their husband’s actions.

Do women have an advantage going into divorce in the wake of the #MeToo movement?

Arizona is a “no fault” divorce state. This means that parties can get divorced if the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” Even though Arizona is a “no fault” state, marital misbehavior may be considered in court when determining financial awards if there was marital waste of the community’s finances or property.

If you are thinking about getting divorced in the era of #MeToo, consider reaching out to a qualified divorce lawyer like Schneider & Onofry, P.C. in Yuma, Arizona. While individuals are permitted to represent themselves during divorce, doing so runs you the risk of giving up important rights under the law. You are afforded certain legal protections and rights during divorce. Reach out to our legal team at https://www.soarizonalaw.com/
to learn more about your options and rights.

Schneider & Onofry, P.C.

365 East Coronado Road
Phoenix, Arizona 85004

207 W. 2nd St.
Yuma, AZ 85364