In a surprising twist to their ongoing divorce proceedings, actor Kevin Costner has scoffed at his ex-wife Christine Baumgartner’s request for him to pay $885,000 for a single issue to be argued in court.
Key Takeaway
Kevin Costner’s ex-wife Christine Baumgartner’s request for $885,000 in legal fees has been harshly criticized by Costner’s lawyer, Laura Wasser. Wasser argues that the agreement prenup is already enforceable, making Baumgartner’s demand unreasonable. This development adds to Baumgartner’s prior legal defeats in their ongoing divorce proceedings.
Costner’s Lawyer Slams Baumgartner’s Demand
In a response filed by divorce expert Laura Wasser, who represents Costner, Baumgartner’s request was deemed “nothing short of outrageous.” The demand stems from a mini-trial concerning a specific provision in their prenuptial agreement, regarding the enforceability of her waiver of spousal support.
According to Baumgartner’s legal team, it would cost $885,000 to prepare their case, and they want Costner to foot the bill. Wasser, however, argued that based on hourly fees, Baumgartner’s lawyers would need to work over 1,106 hours to justify that amount.
Judge’s Ruling and Previous Legal Battles
Wasser also highlighted that the judge has already ruled the prenuptial agreement as enforceable, rendering Baumgartner’s pursuit a dead end. This latest demand adds to a series of legal losses for Baumgartner throughout the divorce process.
Initially, Baumgartner had requested $248,000 per month in spousal support. Costner pushed back, arguing that $63,000 was a more reasonable amount. Ultimately, the judge sided with Costner, deeming $63,000 as the appropriate figure. Costner even offered to pay $75,000 per month, which was rejected by Baumgartner.
The Financial Toll of the Divorce Battle
In addition to the legal fees, Baumgartner’s actions have already cost her financially. Wasser stated that Costner has already paid $300,000 in legal fees for Baumgartner and that she allegedly appropriated $105,000 from Costner’s accounts to fund her legal team.
If Baumgartner chooses to challenge the prenuptial agreement and loses, she will not only have to repay over a million dollars to Costner but also cover her own legal fees.
