What are my rights in a seperation, kids??

What is the name of your state? California
My wife has told me she is not sure if she wants to stay married. She said she needs space and time and wanted me to move out until she figured it out. I spoke to my pastor the other day and he said legally I need to protect myself and get back into the house. The courts will look on me leaving as abandoning my children. Is this true? Last night after two full weeks I told my wife I needed to be in the house. We are sleeping in seperate rooms now. Did I do the right thing? What rights do I have as a father? I want to stay married and work it out but she says I never wanted to work it out before so now it's too late? PLEASE HELP!!

[karma1]

I'd try my hardest to work things out-get to counseling, maybe the both of you talk to your pastor---maybe he has some recommendations for counselors...
Your pastor gave you good advice about moving back in--but not because if you did continue to live a part would mean abandonement (that is a legal term with more involved than just living a part...), but because if you did move out, until papers are filed, biomom can control everything, including time with your children...
Financially, if possible, to protect yourself, you might want to get as many things as you can in just your name (bank accounts, credit cards, etc....)
Personally, if you are not already, get involved in any matters pertaining to your children...schools, doctors, extra activities.....do as much and more that you can for your children..take parenting classes, CPR, First aid---
If you feel things cannot be worked out, try this site...
[url]www.deltabravo.net[/url]
a wealth of info for people in your situation---read everything on there.
(not an attorney)