Expert: james52144@earthlink.net - 8/3/2008

Question
My husband has a drinking problem and i really don't know how to handle it.  He wasn't violent until the other night.  I had to call the cops on him.  I want to file for a divorce but I'm not sure how to tell him that I'm leaving.  He has said if i leave my life will be hell because of him.  What steps can i take to get away?

Answer
Hi Jane

Well, the first suggestion is to go talk to an attorney. You can get a domestic violence restraining order now, and if that is your intention I recommend that you not wait much longer. Restraining orders are usually pretty good at protecting the victim. On a personal level, you might want to go to Alanon, which is an international group who supports victims of alcohol.