In a legal proceeding that captured the attention of specialized media for its legal complexity and emotional sensitivity, attorney Jim Adley—partner in the family law division at Newsom Legal—secured a favorable resolution in a high-profile divorce case involving a multimillion-dollar asset dispute and an international battle for shared custody of two minors.
The case was resolved in the Family Division of the Superior Court of Justice and is now considered an example of how to approach family litigation with a balanced perspective between legal firmness and emotional responsibility.
The Conflict: Divorce Between Entrepreneurs With Assets in Three Countries
The couple, both entrepreneurs with investments in Mexico, the United States, and Spain, decided to end their marriage after 14 years together. The conflict escalated when they failed to reach an agreement on how to divide their shared estate, which included foreign real estate, business shares, and joint bank accounts.
The case also involved legal custody of two minor children—one born in Mexico and the other in Miami—further complicating the process due to the application of international family law regulations.
Jim Adley’s Strategy: Comprehensive Protection With a Human-Centered Approach
Jim Adley, known for his calm yet persuasive style, represented the wife and focused his strategy on three key pillars:
-
Asset defense with a focus on both economic and non-economic contributions, acknowledging the value of unpaid domestic work and support in the spouse’s career.
-
Shared custody with primary residence in Mexico, to protect the children’s emotional stability while preserving strong ties with both parents.
-
Structured mediation, encouraging out-of-court agreements whenever possible to avoid unnecessary litigation over sensitive matters.
“A divorce should not be a war. It’s a process of legal and emotional transformation where the essential goal is to preserve the dignity of the people involved and the well-being of the children,” Adley stated during a key hearing."
The Ruling: Comprehensive Agreement With International Shared Custody
The court approved a comprehensive divorce agreement that recognized Natalie T.’s right to receive financial compensation equal to 40% of the couple’s shared estate value.
The agreement also established a joint educational fund and required both parties to attend family support sessions during the first year following the divorce.
Legal Recognition and Broader Impact
The case has been praised by judges and mediators as a model for achieving fair, peaceful, and modern divorce resolutions—even in high-conflict scenarios.
Family law experts emphasize that Jim Adley’s involvement was crucial in avoiding a lengthy, costly trial that could have harmed the children:
Jim Adley: A Moderate Voice in Times of Family Conflict
With over 10 years of experience in family law, Jim Adley has handled cases involving divorce, custody, adoption, and domestic violence with a focus on peaceful conflict resolution. His reputation has made him a go-to lawyer for clients seeking a balance between strong legal advocacy and respect for human emotions.