By April 2010, the romance fizzled, and the two announced they had separated. A few months later, Michaels took to her personal blog to rant about being blindsided when she read online headlines that revealed Etheridge's intention to file for divorce. {relatedarticles}

Etheridge's legal moves set off a series of public battles over everything from child custody to assets. The two reached a settlement in 2012. Etheridge agreed to fork over $13,000 in monthly spousal support and $10,000 in monthly child support. They both agreed to joint custody and divvied up their numerous properties. Michaels even won ownership of some of Etheridge's song catalog and royalties.