Kimora Lee Simmons Wants Ex Tim Leissner To Have Primary Custody of Son in Divorce – TMZ

Kimora Lee Simmons is seeking to grant her ex-partner, Tim Leissner, primary custody of their son as part of their ongoing divorce proceedings, according to reporting from TMZ on July 21, 2026.

The request marks a specific legal development in the dissolution of the relationship between the fashion mogul and the former Goldman Sachs executive. The filing indicates that Simmons is requesting the court designate Leissner as the primary custodial parent for their child.

The legal move comes amidst a complex backdrop for Leissner, whose professional career ended following a high-profile criminal case. According to court records and previous reporting, Leissner pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering and conspiracy to violate the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act in connection with the 1MDB scandal.

The 1MDB case involved the embezzlement of billions of dollars from a Malaysian sovereign wealth fund. Leissner’s cooperation with federal investigators was a central component of the U.S. Department of Justice’s efforts to recover stolen assets.

Simmons, known for founding Baby Phat, has maintained a public profile centered on her fashion ventures and family life. The current custody request is a primary focal point of the divorce filings reported by TMZ.

While the specific motivations for granting primary custody to Leissner were not detailed in the initial report, the filing establishes the formal request for the court’s approval. Custody arrangements in high-profile divorces are typically decided based on the best interests of the child, taking into account the parents’ living situations and availability.

Leissner’s legal standing has been under intense scrutiny since his 2016 arrest. His role in the 1MDB scheme led to the forfeiture of significant assets, including real estate and luxury goods, as part of his agreement with the government.

The transition of primary custody, if granted by the court, would shift the day-to-day responsibilities of parenting to Leissner. The specific terms of the visitation schedule and financial support remain subject to the court’s final ruling in the divorce case.