Thank you for your post! I’m glad you’ve been able to get good information from our site.
To answer your questions, yes, primary custody is something that is possible for you. A court would make that decision based on what it feels is in the best interests of your children. However, evidence of his drinking, and depression, as well as your role as the primary care giver, would be key in gaining primary custody of your children. A visitation schedule could be worked out from there.
As far as child support is concerned, even a person without a job has a child support obligation. While it is miminal, it can always be adjusted, based on a substantial change in circumstances, once his income increases. You should either contact a lawyer, or social services to get started on a child support order.
In terms of your privacy, the only thing you should really be concerned about is visitation with your children. Otherwise, you have no reason to tell him about the other aspects of your life.
Dating is always a concern of separated parties. As you have read, dating during the separation is not recommended. Dating while you are still married can subject you to a claim for alienation of affections or criminal conversation. If you have a separation agreement, a waiver of third party claims to lawsuits of alienation of affections and criminal conversation (and other similar acts) can be written in to protect you from those kinds of actions.
I hope that helps. Good luck!
Shonnese D. Stanback
Attorney
The Rosen Law Firm
4101 Lake Boone Trail, Suite 200
Raleigh, North Carolina 27607
919.256.1534 direct voice
919.256.1667 direct fax
919.787.6668 main voice
919.787.6361 main fax
NCdivorce.com
email: sstanback@rosen.com
The response posted above is based upon the limited factual information made available and is not intended as a full and complete response to the question. The only reliable manner to obtain complete and adequate legal advice is to consult with an attorney, fully explain your situation, and allow the attorney sufficient opportunity to research the applicable law and facts required to render an accurate opinion. The basic information provided above is intended as a public service but a full discussion with an attorney should be undertaken before taking any action.