I need to leave my abuser- problem is we live in an apartment in Texas.. both names are on lease but all utilites are in my name... what are my rights. I know I can have utilities shut off but what happens when I leave regarding lease. He will not let me work to pay my debts... I'm moving to Missouri with family and will not be able to afford to fly back to Texas for any problems. I need to prepare for them now. Also, I do not have money to file for divorce- what can I do?

I was in the same predicament and there are laws in Texas that protect your rights if you can prove abuse such as police reports, etc. I got out of my lease clear and free.

Talked to my best friend who is a legal aid attorney and the worse case scenario the apt will file against both of you and it will end up on your credit for 7yrs for the remainder amount of the lease. He could file civil judgement against you if he's that intelligent to think of that which most men aren't. Still no criminal charges would be filed only civil and it would only go on your credit for 7years. I would whole lot rather deal with bad credit and have a good excuse why then to stay and deal with the abuse. Good luck girl. Get out as quick as you can, it never gets better only worse.

Divorce, if there is no community property or children involved legal aid can help you with minimal problems. It takes time though to finalize it after it's filed. As long as he signs the paperwork and doesn't contest it it should be very simple.

Wow- thank you so much for the quick response- I do not have any police reports here in Texas but I do back in Missouri-
My credit has already been trashed because of him so I need to get out.
Thank you for your help!