(((BG))) a LS is not a failure and its not a D. It is a way for you to protect yourself and YOUR kids from your Hs stupidity and lack of clarity. I finally had to do it and it was the best thing I have ever done. It was hard but I haven't regretted it for one second. I love my H, even after all he has put us through, but my first duty is to myself and my kids and for once I had to put us first. In Cali. a LS does exactly what was said by another poster. It is everything that a D is without actually D. The property is split, the support and visitation is decided, etc... The benefit is I am still able to use his insurance for myself and we can file taxes jointly, which worked better for us. Here you only have to pay the filing fee once, but if you do modify it to a D, all of the papers have to be refiled and the waiting periods apply.
I'm so sorry it has come to this, but you HAVE to take care of you and the kids and just focus on the things that are about you guys. I'm here and praying like crazy for you.

You are the furthest thing from a failure. People with your strength and character and spirit give the rest of us hope and are part of what keeps us moving everyday. Honey if anyone had a multitude of reasons to curl up and decide to call in not interested, its you. But you get up, take care of everyone around you, give selflessly, keep a pretty positive attitude and make the most of everyday. You are an inspiration and don't you forget it. (((love you lil' sis))

M:39
H:39
K:S14;D8
T:22yr
M:15yrs
S:12/28/07 EA/PA
3/14/08 OW preg
11/17/08 born
12/12/08 his
~~~~~~~
Never allow someone to be your priority while allowing yourself to be their option