kml is correct...the only thing that witnesses can attest to is that he hasn't been living under the same roof w/you for two years. They can attest to how the house was left, but as for the tools...they didn't see them prior to or after his departure and if I recall, they've not been to your home in many years. Don't let this scare you.
You've got a lot going in our favor and that's why they are acting this way. They know they truly don't have a leg to stand on when it comes to child support and his portion of the retirement. The house is a wash. There's nothing else to truly quibble over. If it gets to a point of what you've spent, you can point out that you've had to borrow money from both your mother and father to get you over the hump w/the girls financially and provide a place for them to live. That's not a lie as our mother did put the rental deposit on her charge card (or did she pay up front). It's all about using scare tactics.
Stick to the facts, be honest and look the judge in the eye. Don't even look over at the scoundrel that made your life a living h@ll the last two years. If he speaks, say hello and keep moving on. Do not engage in any conversations w/him, his lawyer or witnesses, if they show up. Allow your attorney to do the work for you unless you are asked a specific question by the judge.
You are scared because this is something you've never done before. I get it...but it's a necessary step in order to move forward w/the divorce. Once things are settled in this hearing, you'll know more about what to expect and when the next possible date is for a hearing about the divorce.
You are a survivor, not a victim. Don't allow your fear to take you down. You are going to be okay. You've got a lot of info/documentation that will support your claims. Be strong and do not doubt yourself. You may not get all that you've requested, but you'll get something out of the requests. We are all here for you.
