Does a trial separation mean the end of my marriage?

[Radley]

The title says it all really, after having a good chat with a friend, I have finally realised how unhappy i am and also how much I am taken for granted, I am thinking of having a trial separation, but,

a) Does a trial separation necasserily mean divorce.
b) How long should it really be for
c) Does it mean NO contact whatsoever for the kids and I or just for the kids.

I am dreading asking for this as I know he will lose his temper and also the kids will be distraught.

Sorry you're going through this. Are the kids in any kind of danger from your dh? If not, I don't think they should be stopped from seeing him. Their best interests should come first.

Though he has a volatile temper, and often swears at the children, no, I don't that they would be in danger, the only thing is, if he took them out for the day, I know where he would take them, the pub.

radley, a trial separation is what you want I think! personally don't really see the point on a 'trial' separation, I think this is often an easier way for one partner to 'get out' and then the permanent break feels easier.

If it really is a 'trial' then I would think you'd both have to agree, be open-minded as to the outcome and agree on what exactly you were being temporarily apart to achieve. It may be a good way of acheiving things, I don't know - but perhaps if youy are being taken for granted it may make him stop and think about you. However he may just feel rejected and get angrier which may interfere with the point?

I'm just thinking aloud really, don't know if any use. It just seems unless really carefully thought out a trial separation could be just first stage of divorce! Though perhaps if he wants the relationship to work (and you do!) then you may be in a stronger position to demand changes / counselling / wahtever if he's asking you to come back?

Good luck anyway.