I'm new here, and registered for some advice and also support from others who are or have been through separation and divorce.
Background: Married for 5 years. I have two young children - 3 and 7 months. We have a mortgage, in both names, but paid for by him because he works and I'm a stay / work at home mum. I'm registered self employed and get maternity allowance at the moment, but this will end when the youngest is 9 months.
Once we decide to separate (we haven't had the conversation yet but it's inevitable) what should I do first? Or is there anything I should do now, even before a final decision is made? He's told me that the kids and I will have to leave the house (I only contributed a few £k to buy it) - is this right? I don't want to stay in the house really, but at the same time I do have to think of the children, eg. the eldest is at pre school nearby and is still in the settling in stage. Do I definitely need a divorce lawyer? And does this cost? Or if we can agree things between ourselves, can we do it online? What if he wants custody of the children? Do I have any rights, since I've been a the main carer for most of the time and I'm still breast feeding the youngest?
I'm also concerned about how I'll financially support me and the kids as a single parent. When I worked freelance at home, I only managed to get a few projects. Now the situation is even more challenging because my youngest won't take bottle/cup/formula, which will make it difficult to go to networking events to find business and also to attend any briefing meetings, should I actually get given some projects. Would I be entitled to any government help, even though I'd have to be honest and say I wouldn't be able to apply for a job (for reasons relating to baby above)?
As you can see, I don't have a clue so any help gratefully received.
Please or to access all these features
Please
or
to access all these features
Mumsnet has not checked the qualifications of anyone posting here. If you need help urgently or expert advice, please see our domestic violence webguide and/or relationships webguide. Many Mumsnetters experiencing domestic abuse have found this thread helpful: Listen up, everybody
Relationships
Probably separating from husband - would appreciate help on where to go from here?
19 replies
smileyhappymum · 10/03/2012 15:57
OP posts:
JessicaLuis232 ·
03/09/2016 07:41
This reply has been deleted
Message deleted by MNHQ. Here's a link to our Talk Guidelines.
Please create an account
To comment on this thread you need to create a Mumsnet account.