Legal Question in Family Law in Mississippi

Re: A friend of mine with a dead beat husband

Your friend seems frustrated about carrying the daily burden. It may be possible that the husband is suffering from depression or physical disability and it may be possible that he can be returned to work through therapy or physical rehabilitation.

If she doesn't have a fault ground for divorce she will not be able to obtain a divorce in Mississippi unless the husband agrees. If she leaves him, there is some risk that she will have to pay separate maintenance and support. Therefore, if she wants an irreconcilable differences divorce, she will need to persuade the husband to agree. The best way would be to help him become self-sufficient again and persuade him that it is in his best interest to establish an independent life. A marriage counselor will be helpful in this regard.

Also, the underlying cause of this situation seems to be financial stress. Therefore, it may help a lot if your friend get her finances under control so they can live on just her income alone.

If your friend can't afford the soft approach, the hard approach would be to explain to the husband about what is bothering your friend, and let him know that she will leave if he doesn't get a job and contribute to the bill payments by a certain date.