An Angelina Jolie-Brad Pitt custody agreement has been reached for their six children, a representative for Jolie told People magazine on Tuesday, even though other sources are disputing it.
Since announcing their plans to get a divorce in September, the high-profile, celebrity couple has been negotiating custody of the children – Maddox Jolie-Pitt, 15, Pax Jolie-Pitt, 12, Zahara Jolie-Pitt, 11, Shiloh Jolie-Pitt, 10, and twins Knox Jolie-Pitt and Vivienne Jolie-Pitt, 8.
"We can confirm that childcare professionals have encouraged a legal agreement accepted and signed by both sides over a week ago," the Jolie rep told People. "In accordance with this agreement, the six children will stay in their mother's custody, and the children will continue therapeutic visits with their father. This has been determined by childcare professionals to be in the children’s best interest."
"We are not in a position to discuss the details. We hope now that it is clear that the events which led to the dissolution filing involved minor children and their well-being, there will be understanding of the sensitivity of the family situation. We believe that all sides are committed to healing the family and ask for your consideration during this difficult time." the statement continued.
TMZ said over the weekend that Pitt had asked for joint custody of the children, while Jolie demanded sole custody with Pitt receiving visitation.
"California judges favor joint custody, unless it would be harmful to the kids," TMZ said on Friday. "Neither Brad nor Angelina mention spousal or child support."
Other sources told People, though, that there has been no permanent agreement on custody between Jolie and Pitt. The source described the announced agreement as "an independent step Pitt and Jolie agreed to while they attempt to work on a more permanent settlement."
E! News reported on Friday that the FBI confirmed a preliminary investigation into an incident involving Pitt and their oldest son on a private plane Sept. 14 was continuing.
The alleged altercation was reported to the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services, charging that Pitt was physically and verbally abusive towards Maddox Jolie-Pitt, reported E! News.
"In response to your inquiry regarding allegations within the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States; specifically, an aircraft carrying Mr. Brad Pitt and his children, the FBI is continuing to gather facts and will evaluate whether an investigation at the federal level will be pursued," the agency told E! News last week.