When a New Jersey married couple wants to legally end their relationship, they must negotiate numerous terms of agreement, especially if they have children. Divorce is not uncommon, but it is also never easy. The good news is that it is often possible to specify certain issues, such as those having to do with child custody, so the finalized agreement reflects a centralized focus on the children’s best interests. Elena Samodanova is going through a divorce and has made a special request regarding her ex’s work on the popular TV show, “Dancing with the Stars.”
Samodanova has told the court that she believes it is best for her two children, ages 10 and 3, if she is granted primary physical custody on a temporary basis. As part of her divorce settlement, Samodanova is agreeing to share both legal and physical custody with her ex, Gleb Savchenko. However, she says that, until he is done with his work on “Dancing with the Stars” and has secured proper housing, she believes the kids would be better off living with her full-time.
Samodanova says Savchenko has been living at a friend’s apartment. Her children have been living with her since the couple separated. She wants the arrangement to stay that way until Savchenko gets a place of his own to live and furnishes bedrooms for his two daughters. Samodanova is also requesting spousal support and child support, noting that her current annual income is less than $40,000 and Savchenko’s is just over $400,000.
The relationship between these two parents has become contentious, with Samodanova accusing Savchenko of infidelity during marriage, and Savchenko claiming he was emotionally abused by Samodanova for years. Such issues can create major challenges and obstacles during divorce, in particular during child custody proceedings. Any New Jersey parent facing similar legal problems may reach out for additional support by scheduling a consultation with an experienced family law attorney.