Q: I asked my husband for a divorce a few months ago, the house is a living hell for everyone.
Since asking for a divorce I have refinanced the house under only me, my soon to be ex will not leave until he gets money from my refinancing. He says he needs to stay here until he can get approved for a house loan, he refuses to go to relatives house, or rent. He is an alcoholic and verbally abusive to me and my two adult kids. He said if I make him mad enough to leave he will get money and sue me to make me sell my house. If I do not give him more than half of the refinancing payout he also says he is going to sue me. I have the refinancing money in a savings account until he leaves but this doesnt seem right that he can stay here and /or sue me. Should I call his bluff?
A:
You need to file for divorce in order to receive the protection/ enforcement power of the court. In the filing you can ask for exclusive use of the house while the divorce is pending. Assuming that the house was marital then he will be entitled to half of the equity as a starting point. Look for a consultation with a local lawyer who can give you more specific advice.
Good luck.
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