Without knowing where you live, some of the advice I give may not apply. if you are still in the house you shouldn't leave until you see a lawyer because it might be considered abandonment and could make your legal position more difficult. If you are in a community property state, the property needs to be fairly divide so your wife will not receive anything unless you are both in agreement to the division. As for the children, joint custody is normally the rule as long as you don't give up your rights to the children. Promise your wife nothing until you talk to the lawyer. If you have a bank account in your name only, you will need it as your wife could attempt to clean out a joint account. It wouldn't be a bad idea if everything is in both names to have sufficient cash available to take care of you until you receive your next pay check. If you check is electronically deposited to a joint account, you need to open an account and have your payments sent there. Right now you need to protect yourself from any actions your wife might take. After you see the lawyer you will be able to work out a better plan to deal with your family.
