Although the writing may have been on the wall for a few years, it is now official: Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner are divorcing. Following their previous announcement in 2015 of their separation, they were still working to reconcile and reunite. They went on vacations together and always spoke highly of one another in public. But, it was not meant to be, and many Texans may be surprised as a result.
According to sources from People, Garner and Affleck took things slowly to assure that they were done in each’s best interest. This is something that we should all emulate.
The couple had three children together, girls of 11 and 8, and a 4 year old boy. Both are seeking joint legal and physical custody, which ultimately could prove to be helpful for the children, who will be less impacted by the divorce.
It is also believed that the couple did not have a prenuptial agreement together. As a result, they took their time in doing things, like determining property and asset division, as well as spousal support. According to sources, the couple remain “super amicable,” which again bodes well for the children.
Unlike many celebrity divorces, this one was handled the right way, with both sides coming to agreements on all aspects of the divorce. It is important to note that this is exceptionally rare. Nevertheless, as we can see, it took significant time to get everyone done properly. If they had created a prenuptial agreement, they likely could proceeded sooner than the two years it appears they took to finalize things. Although it will be sad for many to see “Bennifer” separate, it will be reassuring to their fans to see that they both took the high road.
Source: The Huffington Post, “Ben Affleck & Jennifer Garner File For Divorce Amid Reconciliation Rumors,” Cole Delbyck, April 14, 2017