Hey, if I didn't have some humor about it, I'd be more of a wreck than I already am.

Sounds like you have a good support system already in place, but every little bit helps.

Do what you have to do to protect yourself. If that means hiring an investigator, please do it. I waived maintenance and child support because of my ex blackmailing me with my SA and mood swings, and it was the dumbest thing I ever did. Hopefully someone else can learn from my mistakes.