[Talula]

Hello,

In Idaho, my ex-husband was arrested 5 years ago and sentenced to jail for 30 years for attacking and raping minors, also breaking and entering.

His private, sadistic life was a horrible nightmare that I had no idea about. I was totally blindsided.

Prior to his arrest, we had consolidated our student loans. I have been told that there is no way to get out from under his portion of the loan---and I am struggling to support my daughter and myself. These monthly payments are a huge strain on me. I have ended our marriage and have no contact with him.

What can I do about this? I have been told to contact my Senator, and have done so with no success. Would hiring a lawyer help? What can I do?

Any help would be most appreciated, I feel desperate and do not want to continue paying for the education of this evil man.

Thanks,

[Mr. Knowitall]

Consolidation is a misleading term, because it suggests that all the loans are being brought together under one payment - such that it might be possible to break them back apart at a later date. What you're really doing is paying off the original loans with a new loan. The original loans don't exist any more - just the new, joint debt.

You can seek recourse against your ex through the divorce court, but as you know that doesn't do much to help you if he's in jail and has no income. Does he have any assets that you might be able to pursue for his share of the loans?