A recent judicial ruling in the ongoing legal battle between Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt over the Chateau Miraval winery has favored Jolie, allowing her to keep 22 private communications confidential. The judge determined that these communications are protected by attorney-client privilege, and Pitt has not met the burden to prove otherwise.
Background of the Dispute
The legal conflict stems from Jolie's 2021 sale of her stake in Chateau Miraval to Tenute del Mondo, the wine division of the Stoli Group, despite an alleged prior agreement that neither party would sell without the other's approval. Pitt, 62, filed a $35 million lawsuit against Jolie, 50, who denied the existence of such an agreement and countersued, claiming Pitt has been waging a vindictive war against her.
Key Ruling
Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Ciny Pánuco adopted an appellate court's decision overturning a previous order that compelled the production of the messages. While Pitt may attempt to access the communications again if new evidence emerges, the judge stated that for now, Pitt has not met his burden to show they fall outside privilege.
Judge Pánuco also denied Jolie's request for $33,692.50 in sanctions, noting that Pitt's position was not without substantial justification.
Statements from Both Sides
Jolie's lawyer, Paul Murphy, called the ruling an important victory, stating that Pitt was completely out of bounds in seeking access to privileged documents. He added that this is part of Pitt's pattern of demanding control over Angelina, including her communications with attorneys.
In contrast, a source close to Pitt noted that the judge allowed Pitt's team to revisit the decision as evidence develops, and highlighted that Jolie has withheld many documents as privileged.
Allegations of Abuse
Jolie's lawyers have also claimed that Pitt refused to buy her out of the winery unless she signed a non-disclosure agreement designed to silence her about his alleged abuse. This refers to a 2016 private jet flight during which Pitt allegedly was verbally and physically abusive, though he was never charged, and Jolie declined to press charges.
Divorce and Current Status
Jolie and Pitt, who share six children, finalized their divorce in December 2024 after initially filing in 2016. Meanwhile, Jolie has listed her historic Los Angeles estate in Los Feliz for $29.85 million. The property, once owned by Cecil B. DeMille, features a Beaux-Arts mansion, guest house, and stunning views. Jolie has expressed a desire to move out of Los Angeles after her children become adults, spending more time in Cambodia, where she adopted her eldest son Maddox.
