FORMER NBA PLAYER CHARLIE BELL SEEKS SPOUSAL SUPPORT FROM WIFE

Most divorce stories, especially those which involve a partner in a marriage seeking spousal support, tend to relate the story of the wife who has been left destitute after her high-earning spouse filed for divorce. The tables are turning somewhat, however, in Michigan and other states as more women are making more money. The husband now may be the partner left struggling to maintain his standard of living.

While not every Michigan husband in divorce proceedings will find himself in such a position, it does happen, and in these cases it may be required for the wife to pay the husband spousal support.

“Basketball Wives” star Kenya Bell is being sued by her husband, former NBA player Charlie Bell, for spousal support. Charlie Bell was dropped from the NBA in 2011 and, according to reports, has not been making as much money as he previously did. In contrast, Kenya Bell is starring in a hit reality show and has recently sold music to iTunes, endeavors which Charlie Bell says are earning her three times the $100,000 a year that he makes now. Kenya Bell claims that her earnings are not that high and that the spousal support lawsuit is nonsense.

Charlie Bell initially filed for divorce after his wife reportedly stabbed him. In light of this alleged abuse, it is thought that perhaps his financial situation must be dire if he is requesting spousal support.

Many men in divorce proceedings may be hesitant to seek spousal support from their wives due to the stigma that may be attached. However, divorce proceedings are not as they were even 10 years ago, and there are protections available for men and fathers under Michigan law that should be explored.

Source: The Urban Daily, “Turning Tables: Kenya Bell Being Sued For Spousal Support,” Jonathan Hailey, May 28, 2012