Marriage is hard, and divorce is even harder. But going through a divorce while the whole world watches may seem nearly impossible. Celebrities and public officials who divorce in the public eye face the insatiable questions of fans and media outlets, while also trying to protect their privacy and shield their loved ones. This may be the case with the rapper Dr. Dre, whose wife of 24 years recently filed for divorce.

In June of this year, Nicole Young filed for divorce from her husband, Andre Young. Young is more commonly known as rapper Dr. Dre., who amassed a fortune as a member of the hip hop group N.W.A, as a solo rapper, a producer, co-owner of Death Row Records, and founder and CEO of Aftermath Entertainment and Beats Electronics.

While divorce is often surprising, the Youngs' announcement blindsided fans. With an estimated more than one billion in assets, the divorce has quickly gotten heated. Ms. Young requested access to all of her husband's business and accounting records for the last ten years. Dr. Dre is fighting back, arguing that she does not need access to his personal information.

Keeping a Divorce Private

While most people don't have to deal with the media eagerly watching their divorce drama, they still may want to keep their private business on the down-low.

• File a confidential marital settlement agreement.

You can request that the court seal certain documents, particularly sensitive financial documents. However, even if both parties agree, the court may deny the request.

• Use mediation.

If the parties are still negotiating with a mediator, there's no need to file sensitive documents with the court. Mediation can keep the proceedings more private, move things along more quickly, and be more amicable. Mediation can also delay the need to file confidential information with the court.

Keeping a Divorce Amicable

Whether in the public eye or not, keeping a divorce amicable can help make it less traumatic. Some tips include:

• Don't speak badly about your ex-partner.

Your family and friends are listening, especially your children. As a result, you should watch what you say about your ex. It can keep both your divorce and your future relationship more civil.

• Learn to forgive.

Getting a divorce is painful. But bringing that pain into a court proceeding will make your divorce even more turbulent and expensive. If you aren't ready to forgive, try seeing a therapist to help you work through your feelings outside the courtroom.

• Look to the future.

Instead of focusing on the past, focus on your future relationship, particularly if you share children.

• Try to be fair and transparent.

Negotiate your divorce settlement in good faith and try to be transparent about all financial matters. If neither party thinks the other is trying to hide something, the entire process will be much easier. Dr. Dre might take this tip to heart.

Facing a divorce or child custody case is always challenging, whether you are a celebrity or not. The LLF Law Firm can help. Call our Family Law Team at 888-535-3686.