Joe Jonas and Sophie Turner’s divorce case took center stage in a Miami courtroom on Wednesday, with Joe’s attorney emphasizing the ongoing dispute over which judge will preside over the case—either an American or a UK judge.
The stakes in this matter are exceptionally high. If an American judge handles the case, it could provide Joe with a significant advantage, considering it would be on his home turf. Conversely, if a UK judge is chosen, it could potentially favor Sophie’s position.
Joe’s attorney, Thomas Sasser, made it explicit that Sophie’s legal counsel had argued that their family had established a UK-based residence, suggesting that the divorce proceedings should be conducted there.
While Sophie’s attorney did not provide a direct response in court, sources indicate that this is indeed the direction the case is headed.
Should a UK judge oversee the divorce, it may result in the primary residence of their two children being established in the UK, which Joe opposes.
Previously, Sophie filed a federal court action, alleging that Joe had violated international child abduction laws by withholding their children’s passports, preventing her from taking them to England. The federal judge in that case ruled that, for the time being, the children must remain in the New York area.
During the Miami hearing, the judge indicated that he would abide by the federal judge’s decision. Ultimately, if the federal judge determines that the United States is the appropriate jurisdiction for the case, the Miami judge will preside. Conversely, if the federal judge decides otherwise, a UK judge will take control of the proceedings.