Ex threatening sell house I'm in

[PipLongStockings]

Hello,
Hoping someone legal can give me a bit of advice.
Background: STBexDH filed divorce paperwork April 17, to which I did not defend. Had letter saying divorce will be sent to court blah blah. Didn't hear anything so emailed his solicitor after 6 months. He hadn't paid so it hadn't been sent. We jointly own house with mortgage but he moved out Feb 17. Abusive, alcoholic dickhead type.
Cut to yesterday, he has contacted an estate agent to sell the house I and my 2 DS's live in. What are my options? I will never agree to sell. Can't afford to pay divorce, is there a way to legally separate that he cannot defend (and cause sky rocketing fees?) His sole purpose in life is to piss me off in any way possible.

If the house is in joint names he cannot sell it without your consent. If the house is in his name and you are in England or Wales you should register your interest in the house with the Land Registry. That would stop him selling it.

To legally separate you need to get divorced and get a financial settlement sorted. There is no other way of terminating your marriage.

The house is in joint names, so you just tell the estate agent you don't wish to sell.

You need to go see a family solicitor for advice on how best to proceed in your circumstances. Most offer a reduced rate 1 hour appointment which should be enough to cover the basics and help you decide what to do.