Home > Faq
Confidentiality agreements are not common in divorce proceedings. They're sometimes used in high-profile divorces among couples who are in the public eye, or for couples who have substantial assets. One spouse usually seeks a confidentiality agreement to keep details of the divorce from becoming public knowledge.
Christie Brinkley's Confidentiality Agreement
A recent example of a confidentiality agreement is that between former model Christie Brinkley and ex-husband Peter Cook who were recently divorced after 10 years of marriage. The custody battle for their two children was quite bitter, involving allegations of Cook's affair with an 18-year-old assistant and his addiction to Internet pornography.
No Media Exposure
Brinkley was awarded full custody of son Jack, 13, and daughter Sailor, 10, and full decision-making authority for them. A confidentiality agreement was part of the divorce settlement, intended to protect the children from further media attention (among other provisions).
Cook's Interview on "20/20"
However, on Oct. 10 ex-husband Peter Cook appeared on the television program "20/20" in an interview with host Barbara Walters, allegedly violating the terms of the confidentiality agreement. When Brinkley learned earlier of Cook's plan to appear on the program, she filed a request for a restraining order to prevent him from appearing and talking about their children; the request was denied.
Cook appeared on the show and told Barbara Walters that he wanted to change public misconceptions of him. He argued that he is not what people portray him to be and that he wanted to set the record strait by appearing on her show.
Adult's Interest Before the Children's
Brinkley's attorney Robert Stephan Cohen disagreed, stating that Cook is putting himself before the wellbeing of ex-wife Christie Brinkley and their children. This, according to Cohen is doing more damage than good.
"The court awarded Ms. Brinkley full custody of the children and all decision making concerning them. That decision speaks for itself," said Cohen. He also indicated that Brinkley intends to further explore her legal options regarding this alleged breach of the confidentiality agreement.
(Source: MSNBC)
Do you need legal help?
If your ex-spouse is violating terms of your divorce settlement, contact us to speak with an experienced divorce attorney in your area to effectively deal with the situation and to ensure your legal rights are protected. Our skilled divorce attorneys will thoroughly evaluate your situation and ensure you and your children are protected. Contact us today to see how we can help you.