James Bond Star In Bitter Divorce
George Lazenby and Pam Shriver were in court this week where requests to have court documents sealed from the press were denied. Shriver, a five time Wimbledon doubles champion, filed for divorce earlier in the month and is seeking custody of their three children. Lazenby, a former James Bond star, denies allegations from his wife that he is a drunk and has given alcohol to their children. Shriver has denied allegations that she is addicted to sleeping pills and alcohol and has driven while intoxicated with the children.
Christina Master, a former wife of Lazenby, accused her former husband of abuse during their marriage and claims he once broke her nose. Their child, Melanie, who is now 34, also claims her father was abusive and “emotionally tormented” her as a child. Lazenby denies all of those claims. Master and Lazenby divorced in 1994.
Lazenby and Shriver were married in 2002. Currently, Lazenby has temporary daytime visitation but will have to undergo alcohol testing and anger mangagement. Often in these types of cases the court will appoint a guardian ad litem - someone who is designated to represent the best interests of the children. The guardian has access to school records, medical records, interviews the parties and various other witnesses, and can request psychological and/or alcohol evaluations of the parties. The guardian then makes a recommendation to the court regarding custody and visitation. The judge is not bound by the recommendation of the guardian, but it is often helpful for them to hear from someone who is advocating for the children, and not for their position as a parent.