The Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes divorce battle was not likely to be a simple court proceeding even before a team of fierce, high-profile lawyers became involved. Holmes filed for divorce in New York, but People reports that Cruise wants the case transferred to Los Angeles, where he feels joint-custody is more likely. Cruise once again hired attorney Dennis Wasser, who guided him through his 2001 divorce to actress Nicole Kidman. Also lining up in Cruise’s corner is Bert Fields, a longtime legal adviser to the actor. Fields has also represented the Beatles and Madonna. An as yet unnamed attorney in New York will also be working with the Cruise legal team. Holmes reportedly signed an “iron-clad” pre-nuptial agreement which awards her nothing during a divorce.
Holmes legal team boasts some major legal fire power as well. Jonathan Wolfe of New Jersey will work with Allan Mayefsky and Michael Mosberg of New York to defend the actress in the divorce and child custody case. Wolf’s past clients include NHL player Martin Brodeur and NFL player Braylon Edwards.
Cruise turned 50 on July 3, but did so without a celebration with his estranged wife and daughter Suri. The Daily Mail reports Cruise had a birthday lunch with Connor and Isabella, children he adopted while married to Kidman. Holmes and Suri were spotted calmly shopping at Whole Foods on July 4 and told New York Daily reporters, “I’m alright. Thank you,” when asked about her upcoming divorce, according to excerpts republished by the Daily Mail. Holmes has allegedly been “secretly planning” her “divorce assault” for weeks with assistance from her father Martin, the Daily Mail reports. Grandpa Holmes also allegedly fired and replaced some of Holmes assistants at her request to help prepare for the separation.
Holmes plan allegedly included changing her email address, cell phone number and buying an apartment in New York without disclosing the real reason to Cruise. A source told People that Holmes “played the role of doting wife” until last week and even said “I love you” to Cruise during their last phone conversation.
