Has he been paying CM or merely drip feeding me my money?

[mssilversprings]

I separated from my STEH 3 years ago. We have a portfolio of buy to let properties, the income from which he has complete control of. I am a joint borrower on all of the mortgages. We have bumbled along as the separation was amicable and up until 8 months ago, he has contributed to a 3rd of all household outgoings. During the last 8 months, I have had to cajole and beg for contributions which have got less and less. I have now received a petition for divorce (which I'm happy about) along with a financial disclosure form. I have nothing other than my teacher's (0.7 40 week contract) salary. I have nothing to disclose except liability. It has also occurred to me that he hasn't, in fact, paid me any CM as the money that is drip fed to me comes from the monies generated from the property portfolio that I own. Am I right?
Apols if I appear naive - I've been trying to avoid nasty financial arguments for the sake of the children...

Sorry to hear he's been such an arse, but I think you know the answer -- you need legal advice stat.
He owes child support (there is an online CM calculator link to help determine this.

Also, as co-owner of properties he hasn't been transparent with you, you need full disclosure of accounts and back payments if necessary.

Your kids don't need the details (don't complain about him within their earshot) but you do need to stand up for your rights both as good role model for their future relationships and so you can adequately support them financially in your own right in the future.

Thank you for your advice - appointment booked with FL solicitor