My wife informed me about 3 weeks ago that she wanted a divorce. Since that time we don't talk or have any type of communication. We are still in the same house and she has her room, (which she keeps locked), and I have mine. Bottom line is that when we were together I paid all the bills and she didn't work. My question is that do I legally have to pay the household bills or can I just pay half and have her pay the other half? Also if she refused to pay her half or percentage of the bills can I just refuse to pay and discontinue the service? I just don't feel she should be getting a free ride. We are in the state of Florida.

Any joint debts that were contracted during your marriage are jointly both your responsibility. If one spouse doesn't pay the creditor can and probably will come after the other spouse for payment. Both of your credit ratings will be adversely affected as a result. In the case of a secured debt, the collateral can and will be repossessed, denying both of you the continued possession and use of it. Any debts that are strictly in her name are legally her responsibility and if you discontinue paying them she, not you, will be held responsible. Your best recourse is to convince the judge to allow you to retain possession of the family home after the divorce. Then you can continue to pay the expenses while living there and she'd be forced to find her own way. You may have to pay alimony for a few years. Otherwise, you can move out and discontinue paying the mortgage, thereby allowing the home to be foreclosed and causing your wife to be evicted. However, a foreclosure will negatively affect your credit record as well as hers.

Thanks, But I am just talking about electric, phone, etc.

She needs to help pay... Can I ask why you and her are staying in the same home still? If she wants a divorce then she must have had the intention of leaving or asking you to leave. If you both continue to live there then maybe you should put on a calendar in the kitchen or somewhere she can see plainly, and write down every utility bill etc. and the date due, your name and half the amount you pay and her name and half the amount she should pay! What an akward situation. I wish the best for both of you!

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Originally Posted by Teach12

My wife informed me about 3 weeks ago that she wanted a divorce.

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Ok, so what have either of you done about this in the last three weeks? Have you seen a divorce attorney? Filed for divorce or at least separation? How was it decided that you would both be in the same house? Or was it just by default? Are there any kids?

If you don't want her to have a free ride, then get off your keister and do something! First thing Tuesday morning find an attorney and file for divorce. This will force one of you to move and get her to pay her own way.

I have an appointment with the lawyer on 9/11. That's the soonest he could see me. We are both in the same house until the lawyer tells me what to do. I am also here because there are 3 owners, my wife, myself, and my mother who actually paid for the house... in cash. I don't want to show a cause for desertion, so until I know legally what to do, I will continue to stay. Thanks for your answers.

Ok, that's understandable. Document everything you have paid out since she announced her intentions. But, for know, just keep on shelling out.