status quo

[Grace48]

My situation is, briefly,  my stbx of 11 years walked out last Oct after being gone for a year working out of state. He came home one to two weekends a month.  While there he acquired a girlfriend and she became pregnant. When he returned he packed all his things on the sly, moved all his money and took all his bills. When he left in Oct he had already consulted a lawyer and had a CS sum, which he sent in Nov. and each month since. It is just enough to take care of the truck and house, which is the only thing he left me to pay in his name. I never had to work, but always did. He made, I would estimate, at least 75% of our income. I bring home about $1000 a month to cover food, utilities, phones, child care, my bills, and anything me and my 15 month old and 5 year old needs. This is not to mention lawyer and PI fees. My credit is shot. My lawyer says that since stbx didn't file for divorce until Jan, and that is how we were living, this is all I am entitled to. (Status Quo) Had I filed when he left in Oct, he would have had to pay for half of all the bills and CS. So basically I am screwed!! Any thoughts on this. The house note and truck does have his name on it, and my lawyer said I could send it to him to pay, but since these are the two things I am fighting to keep, that seems foolhardy. I  would consider getting a higher paying position, I am a media specialist, but they are laying off in my district and I am lucky to have the private school job I have now. Any suggestions?

[TC]

Just my opinion here, I am NOT an attorney, but it sounds to me like your attorney is full of chit....if I were you, I'd get me a consult with another attorney or three...see what they say....but I don't think this one is giving you very good advice.

TC

[Grace48]

I am beginning to think my lawyer is too busy, he has tons of clients and was not ready for court our first date and had to postpone. He is one of the best in our area though, and my stbx has the other lawyer considered the best, so this lawyer is about the only chance I have. I don't have the money to switch at this stage anyway. If I knew what to do I would just push for it. I am having top learn to stand up for myself... I wanted the judge to hear the circumstances and make an order for more support. My lawyer said the judge hates to touch status quo.

[Wolfy]

I'm not a lawyer either but I would try for 1/2 of everything, including your stbx's retirement

[Grace48]

Let me clarify that this is just until we get to court. I am sure I will get more money once the judge hears this case. Or at least I hope so...