Examining One of the World’s Biggest Divorces: Bezos v. Bezos

Will Mackenzie Bezos receive half of her husband’s stock in Amazon?

Recently, Amazon creator Jeff Bezos announced that he and his wife Mackenzie of 25 years. The divorce is already being labeled as one of the largest in the world because it will involve division of the Bezos over $137 billion in assets. Further, the divorce is rumored to have occurred, at least in part, due to Jeff Bezos’ affair. Bezos was photographed weeks before the divorce announcement with another woman. As the Bezos gear up for a hotly contested and high profile divorce, our Midland, Texas divorce lawyers discuss some of the issues that could arise in the Bezos divorce.

The Bezos Supposedly Did Not Have a Prenup

News outlets are reporting that the Bezos did not have a prenuptial agreement. The couple wed 25 year ago, around the time that Jeff Bezos created now mega-company Amazon in his garage. Today, Jeff Bezos still holds 16 percent of Amazon, which is estimated to be worth over $140 billion. Without a prenup in place, the court will need to closely weigh what portion of the estate should go to Mackenzie Bezos.

Washington is a Community Property State

The couple resided in Washington state during the marriage. Washington is a community property state, which means that property and debts acquired by a couple during their marriage can be divided according to what is equitable and just. Equitable does not necessarily equate to equal, and the court will well consider Jeff Bezos level of involvement in the company, as compared to his wife’s. However, equally considered will be the significant contributions Mackenzie made to the household during the marriage. As a mother to the couple’s four children, Mackenzie Bezos contributions were great and will likely be weighed by the court.

The Affair May Have No Impact on Property Division or Alimony

Washington is a no-fault divorce state, meaning that the faults of either party will generally bear no impact on the outcome of the divorce. Further, Washington case law has yet to consider adultery as a factor in the award of alimony. As such, it does not seem that Jeff Bezos affair should legally have an impact on the divorce, but the publicity surrounding it could still have widespread consequences. As we watch to see what happens in the Bezos divorce, couples across the U.S. can take a lesson from the divorce and consider creating a pre or post-nuptial agreement to prevent divorce disputes later on.

About the Author

Rick Navarrete, a graduate of Angelo State University and Texas Tech University School of Law, has been serving the Permian Basin for over 24 years, with his practice extending across Texas. Specializing in criminal defense and family law, Rick has tried hundreds of cases before juries and judges, including high-profile matters. His extensive experience has honed a deep understanding of the law, enabling him to effectively prosecute, defend, and protect his clients’ interests. Rick has built a firm culture that prioritizes exceptional client service and personalized attention. Known for his zealous courtroom advocacy, he is equally dedicated to educating his clients throughout the litigation process. This commitment has earned him a reputation as one of the area’s most sought-after trial attorneys. Rick is an active member of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, the Texas Family Law Section, and the Administration of Rules of Evidence Committee for the State Bar of Texas. He has also served as President of the Midland County Young Lawyers Association and on the Bar Leadership Committee of the State Bar of Texas. Among his many accolades, Rick has been recognized as a Texas Super Lawyer and included in the Best Lawyers in America.