Celebrities live their lives in the public eye. Many aspects of their lives are unearthed and broadcast around the world. And few aspects receive as much attention as the details of their lavish marriages and high-asset divorces. But these stories can provide more than just idle gossip. Despite all their glitz and fame, celebrities face some of the same problems as Florida citizens, and we can learn from them.

A case in point is Halle Berry's divorce, which continues to be marked by contentious fighting on both sides. Berry and her ex-husband had a child custody agreement in place that provided that the couple would share joint custody of their young daughter. Berry, however, recently went to court to seek a restraining order against her ex-husband and sole custody of their daughter.

The turn of events was prompted by an incident where Berry's ex-husband allegedly assaulted the child's nanny while the child was in her arms. Social workers discovered nothing to substantiate the claim, however, and could not find evidence that the father ever abused his daughter. The social workers recommended that Berry's request be denied and that the father's right to joint custody continue. It is believed that the judge in the case will follow that recommendation.

Divorces can be an emotionally charged and tumultuous time for everyone involved, and matters can intensify when custody of the couple's children becomes a contested issue. It is important to remember that the best interests of the children carry great weight in child custody proceedings.

Source: BET.com, "Halle Berry's Ex Wins Court Victory in Custody Battle," Evelyn Diaz, Feb. 3, 2012.