Content Warning: This article contains discussions of alleged domestic violence in which a child was present.
On September 11, Nikki Garcia filed for divorce from Artem Chigvintsev. For those unaware, law enforcement recently arrested Artem on domestic violence charges.
The arrest took place on August 29. Officers officially charged the former Dancing with the Stars pro with “felony corporal injury to a spouse or cohabitant.” Details about the victim remain undisclosed.
The incident prompted Nikki to split from her longtime partner after about two years of marriage. Now, days after the divorce filing, the public has word from Artem’s lawyer.
Do Artem’s co-parenting claims contradict Nikki Garcia’s divorce filing?
Artem’s lawyer, Ilona Antonyan, recently spoke with PEOPLE about the divorce. Antonyan confirmed that Artem did not intend to comment personally on the divorce filing. “At this time, Mr. Chigvintsev will not comment on any pending proceeding,” his attorney said. “The parties are focused on co-parenting and working together for the best interests of their son.”
Such a claim would appear to fly in the face of Nikki’s demands in the divorce filing. Nikki hopes to achieve sole legal and physical custody of Matteo. Granted, Nikki did provide a concession for visitation rights. Perhaps that’s her ideal method of co-parenting at this point. Nikki also asked that neither party be awarded spousal support.
Notwithstanding, Antonyan had a word about that. The attorney said, “as a standard practice, the divorce response preserves Mr. Chigvintsev’s financial rights to support and fees. Failure to check these boxes in the responsive pleadings waives the right to seek such remedies. There is no motion pending for spousal support or fees, also known as the Request for Order.”
Nevertheless, Antonyan added that the “parties intend to resolve all pending issues on mutually acceptable terms.”
Dancing with the Stars continues Tuesdays at 8/7c on ABC and Disney+.
If you or someone you know is affected by any of the issues raised in this story, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or chat at thehotline.org.
TELL US – WHAT DO YOU MAKE OF THE STATEMENTS FROM ARTEM’S LAWYER?
