Gibson divorce case reassigned to new judge

Mel Gibson has been granted his request to have a new judge appointed to his divorce case amid allegations of "prejudice".

The Lethal Weapon star's wife Robyn filed to end the couple's 28-year marriage last week (13Apr09), citing "irreconcilable differences".

Gibson's lawyer, Bob Kaufman, moved to strike Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Rafael Ongkeko from overseeing the divorce proceedings on Thursday (16Apr09), insisting his client could not "have a fair and impartial trial or hearing" before the judge.

The legal documents failed to go into further detail, but Kaufman's argument was deemed valid and his request was approved on Friday (17Apr09).

The case has now been reassigned to Judge Frederick Shaller, reports Eonline.com.

Robyn Gibson, who will be represented by top celebrity divorce lawyer Laura Wasser, is seeking joint physical and legal custody of the couple's youngest son, Tom - their only minor child. She is also asking for spousal support and attorneys fees.

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