umarried rights

[wizadorah]

i will try and keep this short, i split from my partner last november (unmarried) we have 2 children together age 15 and 16 we was together 22 years, we brought our first house together in joint names 5 years ago, my ex left me for another woman who he now lives with but he is still coming to the house on a regularly basis, my problem is each time he comes he doesn't knock he just lets himself in with his key, i was told he is allowed to do this even though he no longer lives here is this right? also the last few times he has come round he has started to be nasty to me infront of our boys and today while i was at work he let himself in went through all my personal stuff in my bedroom took some of my jewellery, then before he left he compleatly trashed my bedroom. Its now made me feel scared and violated so i really want to stop him from coming in without my consent. Can i change the locks or will i have to put up with what he doing. Hope someone can help.

[Annlinda]

You can go to County Court and get an injuction to prevent him coming into your home. Tbe fact that he is joint owner with you makes no dffeence.

[lady_p_gold]

You really must get some legal advice and hopefully sort out how to split the proceeds of the house and getting it sorted out by you buying him out or something.

[scotchollie]

Change your locks - this behaviour is intimidation and intrusive.

Speak to your local police and ask for a domestic abuse officer to see you.

It may not be abusive behaviour (other than an abuse of trust) but it gets you on the record.

You see, most police shy away from getting involved in domestic, civil disputes, so this is a good way of having your problem on police files should the matter escalate.

Also get them to give you advice on improving security - it's should all be free. And ask them if they know of any local authority scheme to help you with this - most LAs have community safety officers who can advice further and may even offer a free lock changing/home security pack.

Also, go to a solicitor - and get some advice. Many will give you the first half hour free of charge.

DO NOT feel that you have to accept this behaviour, or it will happen time and again.