Changing from Tier 2 Dependent to Tier 2 General

I'm currently a Tier 2 Dependent on my husband's Tier 2 General visa. Due to marital problems, it seems possible that our marriage might dissolve. My life is in the UK (I've lived here for nearly 4 years and my children have always lived here as well) and so I am interviewing for positions with a Tier 2 sponsored visa. I've been informed that I can seek employment here in the UK, but then have to leave to do the actual application for the visa once I receive a certificate of sponsorship. I have a few questions:

1 - Does switching from Tier 2 General Dependent to Tier 2 General reset my time frame for ILR (especially sad since I am SO close to the five year mark)
2 - If my husband and I are separated, but working on our marriage, can I stay as a dependent on his visa?

1. Sadly yes
2. If you are separated from your husband you may not be able to show proof of cohabitation which is a vital part of ilr application.