Separated - what next?

[NewTownVelocity]

H left about 6 weeks ago. He walked out after a series of arguments and now lives in a rented property. The dc stay with him every second weekend and one night midweek every week. He pays me £320 per month child maintenance and is still paying 50% of the mortgage. DC and I still live in the family home.

He was emotionally abusive and I want to move forward as soon as possible. I do work and earn a reasonable salary but I have no savings. We both have pensions.

I don't know what to do next. I don't want mediation because I know he'll turn on the charm and I'll agree to things I might not be happy about. I would prefer to start divorce proceedings but I don't know how I will pay for it. I have no money apart from my monthly salary, and I don't want to release money from my house because I couldn't afford anything else in this area. I want to stay here because the dc are happy and near their school and friends. Ideally I would like to buy him out but as I said, I've not got the spare cash.

I feel a bit lost tbh. I'm not progressing because I don't know how to. I'm scared I'll lose what little I've got. Can someone tell me where to start? TIA.

[EverythingsShinyCaptnNotToFret]

While you are waiting for someone else more knowledgable to come along, this website may be of a little help.

Wikivorce