If my husband and I are separated, what debts may I be responsible for that he could incur?

Question:

My husband and I have been married less than 3 years and I have been the main income in our marriage. We do not have any joint accounts. I have real estate that I owned before our marriage. I have a new car in my name only that was purchased since we have been married. Our medical insurance, which covers both of us, is from my employer. The auto insurance, also in my name, covers both of us. He is not working. He has a drug addiction and refuses to seek help. If he committed a criminal act what liabilities would I have? What protection would a "legal" separation provide?

Answer:
If you are not legally separated, then you could be responsible for any debt he incurrs. Different states have different laws, but in some states, if he, for instance, hurt someone in a drinking and driving accident, you might be liable for damages as well.

Keep track of every expenditure you make during your seperation. If it comes down to it, you could sue him during a divorce for the money and things he uses during a seperation. But keep detailed records.

I THINK THAT YOU MIGHT HAVE TO PAY ALIMONY, SINCE YOU ARE THE BREAD WINNER

It would depend on the state. Becareful I know that if you even rent to a drug dealer they can take your house that you are renting to them away. There is even a bigger chance that it would happen if you knew that it was happening.

I can't see them doing anything less if he is your husband.

By being legally separated a court will order that he incurs no common bills beyond that date so it offers a small amount of protection. I suspect you will end up having to pay support to him as he does not work but contact your attorney and they can advise you. In most states unless you have a prenuptial agreement you could be held liable for half of any bills he runs up. Go talk to an attorney it is money well spent.

Good Luck!!

most states will use bills incured during the marriage as a marriage thing so it would have to be 50/50, of course depending on the state. pull all of the money you can out of the account except what is normally his. you can drop him from both your insurance policy's at any time. legal seperation would give a official decision to award who stays in the house (if any) of course i'm not a family attorney so you have to check w/ an attorney in your state for anything legally binding

I live in Nv which is a community property state. Given his drug addiction, first off you need to put credit protection on your credit so you are contacted anytime anyone is applying for credit in your name. Joint credit cards ect. Then you need to homestead your house so any debts, or legal issues that may occur before you are married that may come up later you can be assured there is no lien put on your property. The medical is a big issue to cuz if he needs to go to the Dr. while your still married and doesnt pay the bill you can be responsible for collection accts down the road. trust me been there. you can email me @ chatterbox752003@yahoo.com and i can tell you more.

Don’t worry about it. women are seldom held liable for anything. they can even walk out on their children and never look back. the courts do nothing. trust me I know.

If my husband and I are separated, what debts may I be responsible for that he could incur?

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