This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
The Battle of the McCourts Is Over... Sort Of
FILE - This March 19, 2009, file photo shows Los Angeles Dodgers owner Frank McCourt waiting to make his Town Hall Los Angeles speech at a Los Angeles hotel. Commissioner Bud Selig is taking away control of the Dodgers from McCourt, whose troubled finances and unresolved divorce settlement have seemingly paralyzed the once-proud franchise. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello, File)
According to Bill Shaikin of the LA Times, Frank and Jamie McCourt have agreed to a divorce settlement. While their bickering is over for now, there are still two crucial decisions that hang over the future of the Dodgers.
First MLB Commissioner Bud Selig must approve the long-term Fox television rights deal. The deal is in limbo until the investigation of the Dodgers' finances led by Tom Schieffer is completed. If Selig rejects the deal, this divorce settlement is voided. Jamie McCourt also agreed not to challenge the deal in court.
Secondly Judge Scott Gordon set a one-day trial on whether the Dodgers are community property for August 4. Both sides agreed not to appeal the decision.
If the Dodgers are found to be collective property, the Dodgers would be split 50-50 making it almost impossible for either Frank or Jamie to buy each other out.
If the Dodgers are found to be sole property of Frank McCourt, Jamie McCourt would receive $100 million, the couple's homes and be released from tax liability.
While this is all well and good, there are other problems looming for the McCourts namely the June 30 payroll. While the last several payrolls have been met thanks to a dash of providence, Shaikin has also reported that without the Fox contract approved by Selig there would be no hope to meet the June 30 payroll.
If the Dodgers were to fail to meet payroll, MLB could seize the team and force a sale. Where that would fall in this settlement spectrum is unknown.
Sponsored message
So what now? Unless the MLB investigation is concluded before June 30, that will be the date for Dodger fans to watch.
Update: Shaikin tweeted that according to David Boies, attorney for Jamie McCourt, a decision on the Fox contract should be expected by Tuesday.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
