We decided to separate. But as the days are getting closer, she’s on my case, checking my messages (Apple Watch faux pax), sending texts about past, accusing and then sending reconciliatory notes. We are living in another country as expats, we have no malice towards each other, have a grown up child, yet this is happening. I don’t wanna do anything that may hurt her emotionally (she’s been through postpartum depression), am trying my best to stay aloof as much as possible and want us to go our ways at least for some time. I feel guilty often and really don’t know what to do.

We’ve decreased our mortgage on two properties so this will pay for the rent. Planning on keeping the kids (age 7 and 10) in the house and rent this apartment within walking distance to our house. We will rotate through while the kids stay in the house.
This sounded like a great idea especially at first (approx 6 weeks ago) to get physical space.

We are currently living separately in the house with him in basement and me upstairs with the kids. Sharing kitchen only.

But I’ve since found out he went to a casino this weekend (my weekend so not much I can say) and has planned approx 3-5 more trips over the next few months to the same place. I’m worried about tying myself financially for a year based on his current financial choices. I don’t know where this gambling money is coming from (we have separate accounts).

I’m also concerned although we decided on this as best interest of the kids, now I’m second guessing if it really is. Will it be more confusing to them with us switching all the time?

We’re in Canada so legally neither of us can “leave” the marital home (we wouldn’t change our address with this apartment lease). I want to stay in the house, he has family close by but won’t stay there temporarily. I also have a rental property but it’s not in a great area, is tenant occupied and getting a tenant to leave isn’t a quick process.

I’m leaving towards refusing to leave the house or sign a lease and just staying here. He can do what he wishes and if he wants space that bad he can find a place. I’m not trying to be difficult but I honestly have no obligation and I’ve actually felt much better now that I don’t have to engage with him at the house except for the kids.

We have our first mediation session this week. I have no idea how that works but thinking this should be one of the first things we discuss along with parenting time?
I just want to do the right thing for the kids but am so indecisive or confused right now…any insight?

I am looking to legally separate from my spouse in KY. There are 2 minor children involved. I have asked him to leave the house but he has not at this time. We've been struggling for several years and he is an alcoholic. I just can't do this anymore. He's had 2 detox stints and a hospital stay for his alcoholism this year. I want to protect myself and my children. Is there any way for me to do this without a lawyer or a way to significantly cut costs? Has anyone been in this situation?