In a shock announcement, the Russian singer`s lawyer told Judge Scott Gordon she will no longer be pursuing the claim against her former partner and father of her 18-month old daughter, Lucia.
Gossip website TMZ reported Mel`s lawyer, Stephen Kolodn, and the judge were both "visibly shocked" at the decision.

A source told the website: "Oksana dropped the domestic violence claim as a gesture - extending an olive branch in an attempt to settle the custody case."

Mel and Oksana have been locked in a bitter battle over custody of Lucia since they split in April 2010.

A Domestic Violence (DV) protection order obtained against Mel - prohibiting him contacting or harassing Oksana - has also been terminated as sources close to the star say she would like to be able to communicate directly with Mel.

The `Lethal Weapon` star has yet to comment on the claim against him being dropped.
In march he did, however, plead No Contest to a misdemeanor charge of spousal battery, in a plea bargain which sees him undergo counselling and complete community service rather than jail time.

The actor and director`s lawyer, Blair Berk, said at the time he had taken the deal to escape a long court fight.

The couple`s custody battle continues in closed court.
sections: Celebrities