Wife in MLC, filed in early March

[C-Bart]

Exactly. Her filing is basically a complaint. You get to respond to the complaint. That's why I tell everyone to try and not get to wound up about the initial filing. Most L will put some crazy stuff in there expecting the other side to strike it down. Its standard negotiation technique. Make an outrageous request to distract from what you really want. Its a big game that nobody wins.

You can counter with a LS but talk to your L about what you really need to have in the agreement. Chances are your W will get really stuck on the LS language and ignore the rest. I would imagine you are looking for time with your kids, minimal support payments, etc. Keep you focus on those things.

I had a hard time taking the action to retain a L. However, you need to protect your interest.

Be strong! Try and separate the love you have for you W from the hell you are going to go through with the D process. Even though you don't want this don't think that playing nice will get you anywhere. Don't be a jerk but down lay down expecting her to do the same.