Channing Tatum and Jenna Dewan recently finalized their divorce after six-years separation, concluding one of the Hollywood’s most memorable romances. Known for their chemistry on Step Up and mutual respect post-split, the two have focused on co-parenting their daughter, while pursuing separate paths. But how would a high-profile divorce like theirs unfold under Texas law? Both Texas and California follow community property principles, meaning assets acquired during the marriage are considered shared. California typically splits martial assets equally, regardless of circumstances. Texas, however, is more nuanced, requiring a “just” and “right” division of community property. This doesn’t necessarily mean a 50/50 split; courts consider factors such as each spouse’s financial situation, future needs, and fault in the marriage breakdown. If Tatum and Dewan had divorced in Texas, their division of their assets could have leaned towards a customized division based on these factors rather than a straightforward split.
When it comes to children, in California, Tatum and Dewan have focused on an amicable co-parenting arrangement for their child Everly, a priority they would likely have preserved in Texas. In Texas custody decisions prioritize the best interests of the child, often favoring joint conservatorship, similar to joint legal custody. Texas courts might look closely at each parents’ ability to provide a stable home, especially with Tatum and Dewan’s demanding careers. Had Tatum and Dewan gone through their divorce in Texas, they might have experienced a more detailed approach to asset division, with considerations unique to each party’s needs. Their co-parenting dynamics likely would have remained the same, as both have shown an ongoing commitment to Everly’s wellbeing. However, the unique nuances of Texas law could have tailored the outcomes differently, highlighting the state’s distinct perspective on property division and custody.
This journey shows that while divorce laws vary by state, prioritizing a child’s welfare and fostering mutual respect in co-parenting can make all the difference in a peaceful, positive post-divorce relationship.
