messy divorce

[jerseygirl]

On 12/22/09, my husband announced he would not be returning to live in our home, and went to live w/family members.He said i would be responsible for house bills (electric, cable, etc.) and he would pay the mtg. and his personal debts (cell phone, truck payment, etc.). That turned out not to be true. We are now 4 months behind. To complicate, his sister's name is on the deed w/right to survivorship. I work a part time job for the past 8 years. Children are grown. What is my first step in divorce? Can i file taxes on my own? His sister is demanding that i pay her rent. i can barely breathe. Help!

[Attorney Cheri Hobbs]

First, take a deep breath and exhale.

Now, you should certainly file for a divorce. In the petition ask that you can have temporary and exclusive use of the marital home and that your husband should continue to pay for the mortgage. In most counties you can file for an emergency hearing on temporary support once your spouse has been served. At the emergency hearing you can ask the court to order your spouse to continue making the mortgage payments and his personal bills and any other relief that is necessary.

Feel free to contact The Divorce Center for a FREE consultation at 800-469-3486 if you have additional questions or concerns.

Attorney Cheri Hobbs