My wife continually writes hot checks on her own account with only her name on it, and also runs up credit card debt in her name. We are married and I need to know if I am liable for this debt or what I can do to protect myself from her debt.

This is obviously a stressful situation for you. Every state has different laws regarding matters such as these. Your best bet is to speak with an attorney in your geographic area. Some do offer free consultations as well. You can locate one through the attorney locator on Lawinfo's home page at http://www.lawinfo.com/.