Madonna’s hubby could see a $250 million payday if their divorce lands in a British courtroom.
The couple reportedly has no prenuptial agreement and a joint net worth of $520 million – which includes homes in London, New York, Los Angeles and a 1,200-acre country retreat in Wiltshire, England.
British filmmaker Guy Ritchie contributed just $35 million to that portly pot, directing films such as “Snatch,” “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels,” and “RocknRolla.”
That means up to half of Madonna’s $485 million could be awarded to Ritchie if he takes his case to court in Britain, where the couple maintain their legal residence and where divorce cases are more apt to end in 50-50 splits than in the states.
But Madonna’s spokeswoman, Liz Rosenberg, said that the Material Mom and Ritchie expect to reach a settlement without going to trial – a scenario that could save the singer significant amounts of money.
But, if things turn ugly, Madonna is more than prepared. She’s hired top British divorce lawyer Fiona Shackleton – known as “The Steel Magnolia” – whose past clients include Prince Charles in his divorce from Princess Diana, and Paul McCartney in his vicious split from Heather Mills.
Legal observers in London say Ritchie could hire Anthony Julius, who represented Diana.
Madonna grossed an estimated $1 billion in revenue during her 25-year career, making her the richest woman in music. She earned $72 million from June 2006 to June 2007 alone.
In addition to her joint real-estate holdings with Ritchie, she has many other valuable assets, including contemporary artworks.