Jason Biggs and Jenny Mollen End 18-Year Marriage: What California Law Means for Long-Term Divorces
Jason Biggs and Jenny Mollen announced their separation on May 14, 2026, ending an 18-year marriage that produced two children. Under California's community property laws, all assets and debts acquired during nearly two decades of marriage must be divided equally (50/50), regardless of which spouse earned more. For California couples in similar long-term marriages, understanding how the state handles property division, spousal support, and child custody is essential.
Key Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| What happened | Jason Biggs and Jenny Mollen announced their separation |
| When | May 14, 2026 |
| Marriage duration | 18 years |
| Children | Two sons: Sid (age 12) and Lazlo (age 8) |
| Key statute | Cal. Fam. Code § 760 (community property) |
| Practical impact | All marital assets subject to 50/50 division |
Why This Matters Legally
Long-term marriages receive special treatment under California family law. When a marriage exceeds 10 years, California courts classify it as a "marriage of long duration" under Cal. Fam. Code § 4336, which significantly impacts spousal support calculations. The Biggs-Mollen split at 18 years places their marriage firmly in this category, meaning California courts would retain jurisdiction over spousal support indefinitely rather than setting a termination date.
The couple's joint statement emphasizing they remain on "great terms" suggests they may pursue an uncontested divorce. According to California Judicial Council statistics, approximately 85% of divorces in the state are resolved without trial. Couples who agree on major issues can finalize their divorce in as little as 6 months after filing, which is the mandatory waiting period under Cal. Fam. Code § 2339.
Their decision to celebrate Biggs' 48th birthday together as a family just two days before the announcement demonstrates a cooperative approach that typically leads to better outcomes for children. Research from the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers shows that children in amicable divorces experience 40% fewer behavioral issues compared to high-conflict separations.
How California Law Handles This
California operates as a community property state, meaning Cal. Fam. Code § 760 presumes that all property acquired during marriage belongs equally to both spouses. For couples married 18 years, this includes:
- Real estate purchased during the marriage
- Retirement accounts and pension contributions made between the wedding date and separation date
- Business interests developed during the marriage
- Investment portfolios and bank accounts
- Vehicles, artwork, and personal property acquired during marriage
The date of separation matters enormously under California law. Cal. Fam. Code § 70 defines separation as occurring when one spouse demonstrates a complete and final break from the marriage. Income earned after this date typically remains separate property.
For child custody involving their two minor children, California courts apply the "best interests of the child" standard under Cal. Fam. Code § 3011. Factors include each parent's ability to provide a stable environment, the children's existing relationships with each parent, and any history of domestic violence or substance abuse. California law presumes that joint custody serves children's best interests when both parents are fit.
Child support calculations in California follow a mandatory guideline formula under Cal. Fam. Code § 4055. The formula considers both parents' net disposable incomes, the percentage of time each parent has physical custody, and mandatory deductions like health insurance premiums. With children ages 12 and 8, the Biggs-Mollen family could see child support obligations continue for approximately 10 more years until the youngest reaches 18.
Practical Takeaways for California Residents
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Document your separation date precisely. Under Cal. Fam. Code § 70, this date determines which assets remain community property versus separate property. Keep records of when you began living separately or communicated that the marriage was over.
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Understand that marriages over 10 years qualify as "long duration" under California law. This classification means spousal support may continue indefinitely rather than terminating after a set period, typically half the length of shorter marriages.
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Consider mediation before litigation. California courts require divorcing couples with children to attend mediation regarding custody issues. Couples who resolve all issues through mediation save an average of $15,000-$50,000 in legal fees compared to contested divorces.
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Gather financial documents early. California requires full disclosure of all assets and debts through preliminary declarations of disclosure under Cal. Fam. Code § 2104. Start collecting tax returns, bank statements, retirement account statements, and property deeds.
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Protect your children from conflict. California courts can modify custody arrangements if one parent engages in conduct harmful to the children's relationship with the other parent. Maintaining a cooperative co-parenting relationship, as Biggs and Mollen appear to be doing, benefits both the children and your custody case.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a California divorce take?
California requires a minimum 6-month waiting period from the date the respondent is served with divorce papers under Cal. Fam. Code § 2339. Uncontested divorces typically finalize within 6-8 months, while contested cases average 18-24 months. Complex cases involving significant assets or custody disputes can extend beyond 2 years.
What happens to retirement accounts in an 18-year California marriage?
Retirement contributions made during the 18-year marriage constitute community property under Cal. Fam. Code § 760 and must be divided 50/50. This includes 401(k) plans, pensions, IRAs, and stock options. A Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) is required to divide most retirement accounts without triggering early withdrawal penalties.
Does California award alimony in long-term marriages?
Yes, marriages exceeding 10 years qualify as "long duration" under Cal. Fam. Code § 4336. Courts retain indefinite jurisdiction over spousal support, meaning either party can request modifications based on changed circumstances. Support amounts depend on the marital standard of living and each spouse's earning capacity.
How do California courts determine child custody?
California applies the "best interests of the child" standard under Cal. Fam. Code § 3011. Courts consider factors including the children's health and safety, each parent's ability to provide care, the children's ties to their home and community, and any history of abuse. California presumes joint custody benefits children when both parents are capable.
Can celebrities keep their divorce private in California?
California allows couples to file certain documents under seal to protect financial privacy, but basic divorce filings remain public records. High-profile couples often use private judges (under Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 638) or confidential mediation to keep details out of public court files. Filing in less-trafficked courthouses can also reduce media attention.
If you are considering divorce in California and want to understand how the law applies to your specific situation, our directory connects you with experienced family law attorneys in your county who can provide personalized guidance.
This article discusses recent news and provides general legal commentary. It does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique. Consult a qualified family law attorney for advice specific to your situation.