How can a woman deal with a negligent, dependent husband who does not provide for the household and children, and has drowned her in usurious debts to fulfill his desires? Is it permissible for her to separate from him while considering the best interests of the children?

A wife has the right to financial support (nafaqa) from her husband for herself and for their poor children, and it is not permissible for the husband to fall short in this, as the responsibility rests upon him. If the husband falls short, the wife has the right to resort to the court to compel him to provide support. As for divorce, it should not be resorted to unless all means to remedy the matter have been exhausted, while being keen on the stability of the family and the welfare of the children. Righteous people can be interceded to advise him. As for taking interest (riba), it is a grave sin and can be a cause of hardship.