Can I just leave the house and not come back?

You can leave the house and not come back and you may take the children with you, unless a court order directs you otherwise. It may be inadvisable for you to leave the house without talking to a lawyer. The best advice is to stay in the house until after you discuss the matter with a lawyer, unless your spouse is violent. If your spouse is violent you must take all steps necessary to protect your safety and the safety of your children. You can leave the house and then petition the court for an order for exclusive possession of the home. This would allow you to live in the home and would bar your spouse from entering the house.