QUESTION
What should I do to begin documenting/protecting myself in case my husband retaliates? And might there be genuine risk to my license as an LMHC?
Asked on Apr 24th, 2025 on Divorce - New York
More details to this question:
After 2 years of marriage, my husband and I have had increased verbal tension that led to me asking him to leave my family home after 45 days. He decided to leave sooner and has been staying with friends. He is currently undocumented and is waiting for US government documents/biometrics to be submitted this year. His social worker (he has a chronic health disorder) informed him that there is "enough of a case" to eventually provide him housing after staying in a shelter if he formally submits a complaint about "abuse." My husband relayed that if he submits the complaint, that could result in my losing my license to practice as a mental health counselor, however has decided to not submit the complaint for now. He and I are currently on neutral/somewhat positive speaking terms since I am providing him money for food and eventually for housing when he finds a room, but I am concerned if tension increases again during this coming year.
1 ANSWER
Property Disputes Transactions Attorney serving Lake Success, NY
Partner at
Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP
3 Awards
Since your Husband has vacated the premises, he cannot make a current complaint about any abuse. Any such complaint would be unsubtantiated and would not result in any final order of protection. Thus, there should be no impact or bearing on your license.
You should keep a journal of any and all interactions, which includes dates and times and summaries of events. This should be done contemporaneously with any such events. Keep copies of all texts, emails and other communications.
If you do not already have security cameras at the exterior and interior of your premises, you should get cameras to record any relevant footage.
However, I recommend before you provide your husband with any more money voluntarily, you should have a consultation with respect to your rights and potential liabilities as well as any potential spousal support rights that your husband may have.
Answered on Apr 25th, 2025 at 8:38 AM