The author and Christine Leonard split earlier this year and she filed for divorce in May, reports the Detroit News. Oakland County Circuit Court records say Christine Leonard cited a breakdown in the marriage for unspecified reasons.
Elmore Leonard's attorney called the proceedings "pretty standard as divorces go." Christine Leonard's attorney said Judge Edward Sosnick disqualified himself from the case because he presided over the couple's wedding.
A trial is set for Dec. 12.
The 86-year-old Leonard, who lives in suburban Detroit, has written more than 40 Westerns, crime novels and mysteries. Many of his books - notably "Out of Sight," "Get Shorty" and "Be Cool" - have become films.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
