Meri was Kody's first wife, but she legally divorced him so that he could marry his fourth wife, Robyn. People reported that this was the only way for Kody to adopt Robyn's three children from another marriage, which Meri hinted at during an episode of Sister Wives. She said, "If ever I'm having an emotional moment about what I've lost, I just think, it's not about me, it's about the kids." 

However, the official statement the Browns gave Entertainment Tonight made no mention of the kids. Instead they said, "We have chosen to legally restructure our family. We made this decision together as a family. We are grateful to our family, friends and fans for all their love and support."

This decision was one that understandably hurt Meri. During a TLC special (via Daily Mail) she spoke about her divorce from Kody, saying, "It's the end of something that we had had, in a way, for 24 and a half years. But at the same time, I know I have eternity with the family. I know it's not the end."