As a wife that is going through a divorce after 18 years of marriage, what rights do I have?

Yes. There is plenty you can do to assert your rights in a divorce proceeding. And first things first: find a capable divorce lawyer who can represent and advise you in much greater detail and with more effect than the short answers available on this site. As a general matter, most states have adopted the principle of 'equitable division' of property in divorce, meaning that the presumption is that the parties will split all their marital assets and debt 50/50 with a list of considerations that could lead the court to vary from that presumption. You may have a right to acquaintance (formerly called 'alimony'), and if you have minor children, to child support. Find a good lawyer.

Get an attorney. He has to contribute to the support of his children, and potentially you as well.

Have you considered Mediation? Mediation is fast effective and affordable. Mediation can resolve all of your issues without having to go to a judge to make a decision for you.

In Illinois, based upon this information, you would be entitled to maintenance, more than likely. Please speak with her divorce attorney, as there is now a formula for maintenance, that we must apply.

You would be entitled to child support and probably alimony.