Hi Julia, my x wanted to go the mediation route, both for us and to connect with his kids but it was not free but cheaper than solicitors. It could well be different in other areas. Can you look into just separating all accounts, closing joint accounts although I think you need his signature to do this. If he has taken a loan out on a property that is jointly owned and you didn't sign anything then that is a criminal offence.
This can be a minefield and affect your credit rating,so do check.
I had a horrid experience when I bought my current house, the previous owner had used it against a loan and when it finally came to light I was the one who had to prove I actually owned the property,not vice versa. It got sorted but it gave me nightmares for ages.
My neighbours actually went for a DIY D, forms online etc. Very cheap but may not work if your situation is complicated but may be worth alook. There are lots of sites you can get free info. Worth a look if you can't trust him to speak the truth.
