Artem Chigvintsev’s lawyer came to his defense Wednesday shortly after the “Dancing with the Stars” alum broke his silence on his Aug. 29 domestic violence arrest.
“My understanding of the investigated facts surrounding the 8/29/24 incident have led me to conclude from the beginning that Artem was not the primary aggressor,” his lawyer, Ilona Antonyan, told People in a statement.
“I believe that to be true even if the burden of proof would be the preponderance of evidence, which is the standard of proof in family court.”
The 42-year-old’s attorney went on to claim that her client was “protecting himself and [his son] Matteo.” Chigvintsev shares his 4-year-old with his estranged wife Nikki Garcia, also known as Nikki Bella.
Garcia, 40, filed for divorce from her son’s father on Sept. 11, less than two weeks after he was arrested for domestic violence.
“Fortunately, he has a strong support group of loving family and friends. I am confident he will move forward from this situation with strength and dignity,” Antonyan added.
“Artem is fully committed to fostering a positive co-parenting relationship with his ex. Divorce is never easy, but once custody is settled, the remaining issues tend to be less emotionally charged and easier to resolve.”
Chigvintsev’s lawyer also emphasized that now that the domestic violence charges against Chigvintsev were dropped on Tuesday, the exes can focus their attention on their divorce and custody agreement.
“We can now focus on negotiating a shared 50/50 custody schedule. Fortunately, Artem has been able to spend time with Matteo almost every day since 8/29/2024 incident,” his lawyer said.
“He is a very dedicated, interactive, nurturing, and loving parent.”
Earlier on Wednesday, the Russian dancer released a statement to E! News regarding the domestic violence incident that took place in his Napa, Calif., home on Aug. 29. At the time, his bail was set to $25,000 and he was released that same afternoon.
Although it is unconfirmed if Garcia was the victim during the domestic violence incident, a 911 phone call revealed that he was arguing with his soon-to-be ex-wife — while their son was present — before the call.
“I am incredibly relieved and grateful that the domestic violence charges against me have been dropped,” Chigvintsev said.
“This has been an extremely difficult time for me. I am thankful that the truth has prevailed.”
Chigvintsev’s rep had no additional comment for Page Six at the time of publication.
The proud father noted that his “focus has always been and will always be” on his son, Matteo.
“He is my world, and being his father is the greatest blessing in my life,” he added. “All along, my main concern has been for him. I am committed to continuing to provide him with the love, support, and care he needs as we move forward. I am hopeful that securing an equal custody arrangement will help us move on.”
Garcia and her estranged husband tied the knot in August 2022 after meeting on Season 25 of “DWTS” in 2019.
If you or someone you know is affected by any of the issues raised in this story, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text START to 88788.