Hi everyone
I have checked on the internet and cannot seem to find an answer to my questions, plus I can’t afford a lawyer at present so I’m just seeing if anyone can help me clarify my concerns.
My husband is divorcing me although I don’t have the papers through yet.
I have been married for almost 20 years. I have been a stay at home mum bringing up my 3 children who are now all teenagers and 1 is 18. He walked out on us at Christmas and has just left.
My husband has now told me that he wants get a flat. He owns our marital home in his name. I am not on the mortgage. He has left me for another woman and wants to move in with her.
He is 40-50k in debt ( I did not know) and is on Debt management plan with Stepchange.
My friend tells me that my husband (who is currently living at his parents) might be able get other loans or apply to siphon off equity from the house to pay for all his rental costs, thus leaving me with nothing after or before divorce as a settlement.
My husband also says he wants me to stay in the house until the younger two children are 18. I would like to move as he has taken the car ( I can’t drive). I live in a small town with little public transport. This leaves me and my children very trapped. So where I live does not suit my needs but I know it will take time to divorce/sell etc.
My question is ; can my husband do this? Can he take equity out of the house to pay for rent and whittle down the money so I get nothing?
If he doesn’t divorce right now should I do so instead as my two children are still under 18? Would I get a better share of the house?
I really don’t know what to do. My husband has bullied and attacked ( verbally and in writing) me ever since he left. I have now stopped him from returning except for property and essential maintenance.
I believe that has had been having an affair for two years and planned his exit well in advance and researched everything he can do to keep his money. He denies it all and is blaming our own rows and me, but I know he’s lying of course.
He is trying to manipulate me . I am very unsure as to what to do. He is a high earner despite the debt, own the house and I am now in a vulnerable position. I have signed my home rights and applied for all my benefits.
Thank you ladies for any advice. I really appreciate it.