Feeling defeated

[sophene]

Hello RR17,
I understand I have to give it patience, but how do I get him to help pay for the bills? Whenever I bring up that he has financial responsibilities here, he ignores me. The credit card debts (which is in my name) that he contributed, cell phone, internet, electricity, water bill, etc. don't go away just because we are separated. I try not to bring up the relationship issue but I get frustrated that he doesn't want to help pay for bills but would spend money on other frivolous things. How can I protect myself financially? I'm still a student, taking care of the kids and pets full time, and maintaining a household. He hardly comes see the kids, it's so frustrating.