Seek a lawyers advice before leaving the house or signing/filing anything. So you are 100% sure of your rights and responsibilities. Look for someone who primarily works in your area and is very familiar with your county's family and probate court. In my experiences with fam&pro courts...they can vary quite a bit in their mentalities about "fairness" and "best interests". In America family Court is like the wild west. For real scary. Also it is probably in your best interest once you find a lawyer who you feel is knowledgeable and competent and has a good track record w/ ur court..put him/her on retainer, hopefully you can find someone who is also affordable! Cuz bottom line is that even when these matters start out civil...U NEVER can know that the other party will remain that way. Protect yourself, protect your children, protect your rights...hope for the best, but plan for the worst.