Bethenny Frankel scored a major victory against ex-husband Jason Hoppy in court on Wednesday.
Following a nine-year divorce battle, which was finalized in January, the Real Housewives of New York City alum attended a virtual hearing, where a judge relieved her of her child support obligations.
According to a December 8 report from Page Six, Bethenny’s lawyer, Allan Mayefsky, asked a judge to cancel her child support payments to Jason for their 11-year-old daughter, Bryn Casey Hoppy, explaining that the child has decided to live primarily with her mom — even though the ex-couple previously agreed to share 50/50 custody.
The attorney then requested a modification of their custody schedule, which would result in Bryn spending less time with Jason.
“We have to put in a schedule that Bryn can be comfortable with that the court can order so we don’t have these constant fights going on,” he said. “We need to recognize that Ms. Frankel is the primary parent … she should not be paying child support at this point.”
During the hearing, the former RHONY cast member told the judge that “whatever you put on paper, that’s great for structure, but she is a living breathing thing and she won’t always go,” and she added that due in part to her and Jason’s dispute, Bryn has been suffering with anxiety and hyperventilation, and has experienced hives.
Bethenny also revealed the child occasionally refuses to see her father.
“I want her to see her father,” Bethenny added. “I know how important it is for a child to have a good relationship with both parents.”
Meanwhile, Jason attended the hearing without a lawyer and said he would not fight Bethenny’s requests.
“This is not a Bryn issue or an issue that Bryn has with me. Therefore I’m removing myself of this fight for Bryn and my physical, emotional and mental health. I will not spend the remainder of Bryn’s childhood fighting as we share joint physical custody. Bryn knows I love her, I want her and I will always be available for our time together.”
After hearing statements from both parties, Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Michael Katz informed Jason that because he did not object to Bethenny’s request, “the relief that is sought will be granted.”
“I’m removing myself from his toxic environment,” Jason replied. “It’s not good for myself or Bryn.”
Bethenny was married to Jason for two years and filed for divorce in 2012.