Breaking: Jessica Simpson Wants New Divorce Judge

Jessica Simpson has demanded that Judge Michael P. Linfield be removed from her divorce case, according to a published report. She claims he is "prejudiced" against her or her attorney, according to a report from TV's Extra. 

JESS TURNS BACK ON JUDGE

Her lawyers filed court papers in Los Angeles on Wednesday requesting a new judge in her divorce from Nick Lachey.

People gives more on the request:

Simpson attorney Lance Spiegel filed the papers, which say she "cannot have a fair or impartial trial" with Judge Michael P. Linfield presiding.

As for why Simpson's camp made the request, a source close to the pop star tells People: "It's a legal technicality. It is important to note this is coming from her attorney, not her."

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Though this makes for some exciting headlines this is likely all for naught as it seems senseless not to get a private judge to handle this matter. 

That's an available option under California law.

Unless they really, really want all types of charges and counter charges aired daily in public, that would be wise.

People Magazine agrees citing an insider that says the request is merely a formality, as Simpson and Lachey are in talks to have a private judge take over the case.

"The goal is to have a private judge because both sides want this to be amicable and private," the source told the magazine.

--Cris Bergman