Madonna Hires Paul McCartney's Divorce Lawyer

Pop superstar Madonna has lined-up Paul McCartney's divorce lawyer after her relationship with her film director husband Guy Ritchie collapsed, it emerged last night.

The Material Girl singer, whose seven-year marriage with Ritchie is widely reported to be close to divorce, first held talks with Fiona Shackleton in April.

A source close to the star said, "Madonna always seeks out the best in whatever field she is interested in at any given time.

"Fiona Shackleton is the best."

Madonna, 49, is understood to have been hopeful that differences with Guy could be resolved and no papers have been filed.

But relations between the couple have hit rock bottom and Madonna has now opted for a proper consultation.

Shackleton, 52, earned herself a fearsome reputation in her handling of two of the highest-profile divorces - Charles and Diana followed by Macca v Mucca.

Fiona's charm and resoluteness, together with her blonde looks, have earned her the nickname Steel Magnolia.

In a rare interview she admitted, "I like sticking up for people. It helps to have a rod of steel through your back and lots of charm. People generally choose the lawyers they deserve."

One friend of Ms Shackleton's said, "Apparently Madonna was impressed by Fiona's work for Sir Paul and the way she handles herself in the public eye. She is a consummate professional."

It is believed Madonna and Guy didn't sign a pre-nuptial agreement, leaving the singer's multi-million dollar fortune vulnerable to any aggressive legal team he might field.

But sources close to the Snatch director yesterday insisted he is not interested in his wife's millions.

Work has begun extending the couple's accommodation in London and New York, fueling speculation the couple aim to stay close for the sake of their three children.

But friends say of the couple say all hope is not lost of saving their marriage.

One pal told Britain's Daily Mirror newspaper, "They have told people it's over and they are just waiting for the right time to announce it, most likely when her tour ends at the end of November.

"They have had separate rooms for a while and are now even on different floors. But you never know with them. It's just possible she is trying to call his bluff and jolt the marriage back to life."

As well as masterminding Paul McCartney's high court battle with ex-wife Heather Mills, in which she received a $48.6m divorce payout -- less than she hoped, Fiona Shackleton also represented the Prince of Wales in his divorce battle with the late Diana, Princess of Wales, in 1996. It is understood she was the one who pushed and won Diana's concession to drop her HRH title in return for a $35million settlement.