Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's legal battle over the sale of their French vineyard stakes continues, with experts weighing in on the implications for their ongoing custody dispute.
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's tumultuous relationship has taken another twist, this time involving a legal dispute over the sale of their French vineyard stakes. The couple, who share six children, purchased the Château Miraval winery in 2008, but have been at odds over its sale since their split in 2016.
Tensions escalated in October 2022 when Jolie sold her share of the estate to a Russian oligarch, prompting Pitt to file a lawsuit alleging that she violated their agreement to give each other the right of first refusal before selling their shares. The lawsuit claims that Jolie's sale was motivated by her desire to "inflict harm" on Pitt.
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's Ongoing Battle over French Vineyard Stakes
Legal experts have weighed in on the case, which could have significant implications for the couple's ongoing custody battle. May Mailman, an attorney specializing in family law, believes that Jolie's decision to sell without giving Pitt the right of first refusal could be seen as a violation of the children's trust.
"The children may feel betrayed by their mother's actions, especially if they were led to believe that they would have a say in the sale of their family's property," Mailman said.
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's Ongoing Battle over French Vineyard Stakes
Bryan Rotella, an attorney specializing in entertainment law, highlighted the potential financial consequences of the dispute. He noted that the sale of Château Miraval could have a significant impact on the couple's assets and potentially affect their ability to provide for their children.
"This is not just a matter of two celebrities arguing over a property," Rotella said. "It has serious implications for their finances and the well-being of their children."
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's Ongoing Battle over French Vineyard Stakes
Pitt and Jolie's custody battle has been ongoing since Jolie filed for divorce in 2016. In 2022, Jolie was re-granted sole physical custody of the minor children, while Pitt was granted "custodial time." However, the ongoing legal disputes between the couple could potentially impact the custody arrangements.
In a separate development, reports emerged that Pitt's daughter Shiloh Jolie-Pitt had filed a legal petition to remove his last name from her surname. Shiloh, who turned 18 in May, reportedly made the decision following alleged abuse by her father. However, Shiloh's attorney has denied reports that she utilized the media to announce the name change.
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's Ongoing Battle over French Vineyard Stakes
"Shiloh Jolie did not take out an 'ad' announcing any name change, and any press reporting that is inaccurate," her attorney, Peter Levine, told People. "As Shiloh's attorney, I am required to publish a legal notice because the law in California requires that of anyone who wants to change their name. That legal notice was published in the 'Los Angeles Times,' as is required."
Pitt has reportedly expressed disappointment over Shiloh's decision to drop his last name. A source close to the actor told People that he "always wanted a daughter" and is deeply saddened by the rift between them.
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's legal battle over their French vineyard stakes continues to unfold, with experts predicting that the dispute could have significant implications for their custody battle and the well-being of their children.
