A judge could consider dissipation of marital assets, but nothing would be automatic.

“And the house?” I asked.

“We need to examine title, debt, and what arrangements protect you and Grace during proceedings.

Don’t assume you’ll lose it.

Don’t assume you’ll keep it.

Let the facts lead.”

I had arrived expecting to hear that Derek was finished and that a dramatic confrontation would settle everything.

Instead, Bennett gave me a list of documents, instructions to preserve my own communications, and advice not to copy material from accounts that weren’t legally mine.