What is the name of your state? Alabama
can i legally change the locks on the doors if my current husband has left? he has been verbally, emotionally, and somewhat physically abusive. i have asked him to contact me when he would be there, but i can't guarantee that he will do it. most of his things are there and he will have to pack them up.
Can you define "left?" As in - has he established a new residence somewhere else?
Are you renting or are you a home owner?
Whose name(s) are on the lease/mortgage?
AS Ld stated - the marital premises require a judge to order sole possession to one party or another - if the courts deem that to be appropriate. However, if you are renting and his name is not on the lease - at least you wouldn't have landlord issues or damaged property belonging to the landlord on top of everything else!
If he voluntarily vacated, I would change the locks. I'd also go to the grocery store, obtain boxes, very neatly pack his belongings and then advise him you'll be putting them outside the door at a time that is mutually convenient for both of you. And I'd have someone with me when the time came to stack them outside the door to prevent any potential violence from occurring.
Again, however, legally the marital premises "belong" to both of you until a court states/orders otherwise