According to TMZ, Nikki filed for legal separation from Bam on April 12, 2023, citing irreconcilable differences and asking for spousal support. In the documents obtained by the outlet, Nikki requested legal and physical custody of Phoenix, but was also open to Bam having supervised visitation in L.A. County as long as he handles the finances.

In a separate report, claimed that the straw that broke the camel's back for Nikki was Bam spending time with Phoenix. David Glass, Nikki's attorney, told the outlet that Nikki thinks Bam wasn't sober and was acting inappropriately around their son. However, Bam claimed that he was sober.

Nikki has also faced some legal troubles related to alcohol in the past. According to TMZ, Nikki was arrested in West Chester, Pa., in March 2016 after getting into an accident while allegedly under the influence.

"Nicole said she had the green light, but the other driver insisted she ran a red," sources told the publication. "Both vehicles had to be towed from the scene, and the other driver was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. Meanwhile, officers said Nicole smelled of alcohol and bombed field sobriety tests. She was arrested and booked for DUI."