Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez divorce
AFP

It was expected, but still In a move Jennifer Lopez that has sent shockwaves through Hollywood, as she filed for divorce from Ben Affleck, ending their nearly two-year marriage. The filing, which took place on August 20, 2024, in Los Angeles County Superior Court, comes on the second anniversary of their grand wedding ceremony in Georgia, a date likely chosen for its symbolic significance.

What's particularly surprising about this divorce is how Lopez, often referred to as J Lo, handled the proceedings. According to TMZ, which broke the news, the Latina singer and actress filed the legal documents herself, without the assistance of an attorney, a move known as filing "pro per." This decision adds an unexpected twist to an already complex situation.

The Absence of a Prenuptial Agreement

One of the most striking revelations from the filing is that there is no prenuptial agreement between Lopez and Affleck. Sources close to the couple have confirmed that the couple did not sign any such agreement before their wedding in Las Vegas on July 16, 2022. This means that all earnings and assets accumulated during their marriage will likely be considered community property, a fact that could complicate the divorce proceedings significantly. According to the paperwork, the couple separated on April 26, 2024.

During their marriage, both Lopez and Affleck have been busy with their respective careers. Ben Affleck starred in films such as "Air" and "Hypnotic" and produced "The Instigators." He also just wrapped filming "The Accountant 2." On the other hand, Jennifer Lopez released her album "This Is Me ... Now," starred in "Shotgun Wedding" and "The Mother," and completed filming for "Atlas."

There is also her income from her products.

Given their substantial earnings during this period, the absence of a prenup could lead to lengthy and contentious financial negotiations.

Jennifer Lopez and Ben AFfleck Wedding
Courtesy

The easy part of the end of Bennifer

The divorce documents reveal that Jennifer Lopez has waived any claim to spousal support. She has also requested that the court deny any potential claims from Affleck for such support. This move suggests that Lopez is eager to finalize the divorce quickly and without further complications, though it leaves open questions about how the couple will divide their significant assets.

Lopez and Affleck did not have any children together, which simplifies the divorce process somewhat. Without custody issues to address, the primary focus of the proceedings will likely be the division of property and financial assets. However, the lack of a prenup and the substantial earnings both stars have accumulated during their marriage could still lead to a protracted legal battle.

Sources close to the couple indicate that negotiations over their marital assets have been ongoing for several months. However, these talks have reportedly grown increasingly acrimonious, with communication between Lopez and Affleck breaking down at times. Despite the unresolved financial matters, Lopez's decision to file for divorce now suggests that she may have wanted to control the narrative by being the first to initiate the legal process, even though California's no-fault divorce laws make the timing of the filing largely irrelevant from a legal standpoint.

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