question about property rights

[kitsapkatie]

What is the name of your state? Washington

My husband of 26 years has filed for divorce. He inherited his Grandfathers house around 26 years ago. We both lived in this house and both worked, we were looking to find a different house and the mortgages were high so we decided to get a 2nd mortgage on our existing home and remodel. So the title and mortgage is in both our names, he needs me to sign any checks that come from ins.co. or mortgage co. I have put my blood,sweat,love and money into it as well as he. Now in his divorce settlement I get my car some of his retirement at age 591/2 and I am 57 but says the home is his only and thats that. I closed my business around 4 years ago to babysit my 2 youngest grandchildren for my son and his wife. The reasons being my son worked evenings and watched children days. He was exhausted and looked awful, I was afraid he was going to end up in a wreck. Also they have a very big mortgage and couldnt afford day care. So I watch them for $250.00 a mo. I babysit 3 days a week. My huisband gave me his blessings so I closed up my shop. Now I am without a job not totaly well and he wants me to move with no money. What are my legal rights to the property, and or alimony?

[dallas702]

It may have been his separate property at one time, but once he got you involved in the mortgage and improvements it became joint. He may be able to subtract the value it held 26 years ago, but the rest is going to be 50/50. You are also going to ask for spousal support, aren't you?

[LdiJ]

Originally Posted by kitsapkatie

What is the name of your state? Washington

My husband of 26 years has filed for divorce. He inherited his Grandfathers house around 26 years ago. We both lived in this house and both worked, we were looking to find a different house and the mortgages were high so we decided to get a 2nd mortgage on our existing home and remodel. So the title and mortgage is in both our names, he needs me to sign any checks that come from ins.co. or mortgage co. I have put my blood,sweat,love and money into it as well as he. Now in his divorce settlement I get my car some of his retirement at age 591/2 and I am 57 but says the home is his only and thats that. I closed my business around 4 years ago to babysit my 2 youngest grandchildren for my son and his wife. The reasons being my son worked evenings and watched children days. He was exhausted and looked awful, I was afraid he was going to end up in a wreck. Also they have a very big mortgage and couldnt afford day care. So I watch them for $250.00 a mo. I babysit 3 days a week. My huisband gave me his blessings so I closed up my shop. Now I am without a job not totaly well and he wants me to move with no money. What are my legal rights to the property, and or alimony?

Hon....you need an attorney...Seriously!

[kitsapkatie]

I don't even know were to begin, how do I get a lawyer with very, very little income.

[LdiJ]

Originally Posted by kitsapkatie

I don't even know were to begin, how do I get a lawyer with very, very little income.

First, refuse to move until a judge orders you to do so. Second...get consults with some local attorneys and see what kind of money you need for a retainer. Then borrow the money...or sell some jewerly...or SOMETHING to come up with the retainer. If you can find someone in your family to lend you the money, you can pay them back out of your share of the marital assets. Its also highly likely that you would be entitled to some alimony.

Again...get the ball rolling.