This Mother and Daughter duo discuss and cover the legal stages and steps that you will face on your way to freedom through divorce. These are practical and rea...
Does Domestic Violence Impact Property Settlements? New Family Law Act Updates
Does Family Violence and Post Separation Abuse factor into Property Settlement? This is now answered in The Family Law Amendment Bill 2024 which introduces some of the most significant reforms in the Australia Family Court in decades, addressing key issues like financial abuse, property disputes, and the treatment of family violence in court. In this episode, We are going to break down the changes, and try to explain what they mean for you, and share practical tips on how to prepare if you're navigating the family court system. These updates aim to create a fairer, safer process for families in transition. Disclaimer: Always talk to your own lawyer before making any decisions or actions on your own case and situation. This discussion is general in nature and should not be considered legal advice. Listen to This Episode If You: 🌟 Are dealing with financial or economical abuse and want to understand how it’s recognized in the new laws. ❓ Are curious about how any type of family violence impacts property settlements. 🐾 Want to know how pets are treated in property settlements under the new reforms. 💡 Need to understand the regulatory changes to Children’s Contact Services. 🛡 Want to stay informed on how the latest family law changes could affect your case. Key Ideas Discussed in This Episode: Expanded Definition of Family Violence: Includes economic and financial abuse (e.g., controlling finances or withholding support). Courts will now explicitly consider these behaviors in property settlements. Family Violence and Contributions: Courts must evaluate how family violence impacts financial and non-financial contributions. Adjustments to property settlements may favor victims of abuse. Pets in Property Settlements: New provisions address disputes over companion animals, focusing on exclusive ownership or sale. Recognizes the role pets play in family dynamics and safety concerns. Children’s Contact Services (CCS): Establishes accreditation and compliance requirements for CCS providers. Introduces protections for sensitive safety information shared within CCS. Protected Confidences: Enhances safeguards for therapeutic notes and children’s statements, ensuring privacy in court proceedings. Links & Resources Mentioned in the Podcast: Supplementary explanatory memorandum Family Law Amendment Bill https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/bd/bd2425/25bd013 https://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;query=Id%3A%22legislation%2Fems%2Fr7234_ems_d9233ec7-832e-4627-88c2-6970f86eb262%22 ARC App https://download.arc-app.org.au/ Empower You App - https://www.police.nsw.gov.au/safety_and_prevention/policing_in_the_community/empower_you_app Episodes for More Information: Communicating Coercive Control in Your Affidavit https://open.spotify.com/episode/6Ci0M4DqznBf1L1kcZM3vY?si=wVsGQ4wcSViYDeBJZr8Puw Post-Separation Abuse: Strategies to Protect Yourself https://open.spotify.com/episode/1ccm01eMpJ3TMZa2uMaUMN?si=FvU_ux2ATBuiBL5IW2g8gQ Emergency Contacts: WOMEN'S SHELTER SERVICE: Call 1800 811 811 LEGAL AID:https://www.legalaid.qld.gov.au/Home Access free or low-cost legal advice tailored to your situation. Lifeline: Call 13 11 14 for 24/7 crisis support and counseling. Mensline Australia: Call 1300 789 978 for confidential support tailored for men. Kids Help Line: Call 1800 551 800 for counseling services for children and young people. Aboriginal Family Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 1800 019 123 for culturally sensitive support. Relationships Australia: Access resources and counseling for relationship and family issues. Emergency Services: Call 000 in an emergency for immediate assistance. DVConnect Womensline: Call 1800 811 811 for support, 24/7. DV Connect Mensline: Call 1800 600 636 for advice and assistance for men. National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 1800 737 732 (1800 RESPECT) for 24/7 counseling and support. These resources are here to help you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out for support—you are not alone. Disclaimer: This podcast episode provides general education for Australians and is not a substitute for legal advice. Every situation is unique, so seek personalized legal advice tailored to your circumstances. 00:00 Introduction to Family Law Changes 01:09 Significant Changes in Family Law Act 03:35 Economic and Financial Abuse 06:48 Impact of Family Violence on Contributions 10:46 Wastage and Financial Misconduct 15:47 Pets and Family Law 19:12 Children Contact Centers 20:50 Accreditation and Safety in Contact Centers 22:01 Understanding Protected Confidences 25:15 Implications of New Legislation on Counseling 27:25 Property Reforms and Family Violence 31:26 Practical Steps for Ongoing Cases 36:32 Documenting Family Violence 38:44 Future Impacts and Final Thoughts
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41:17
Mediation or Manipulation: How to Handle Divorce Mediation When Settlement Isn’t their Goal
Mediation is meant to be a pathway to resolution, but what happens when one party has no intention of settling? In this episode we explore the troubles and solutions of mediation, offering practical tips on how to navigate manipulative tactics and protect your mental health. Whether it’s property or parenting arrangements, this is an informative guide on what you can potentially expect before, during, and after mediation to stay one step ahead. If you’ve ever worried about being stuck in a mediation that feels like a game rather than a genuine effort to resolve issues, this episode is for you. Disclaimer: This podcast episode provides general legal education for Australians and is not a substitute for legal advice. Every situation is unique, so seek personalised legal advice tailored to your circumstances. Listen to This Episode If You: 🌟 Want to prepare for an upcoming mediation session. ❓ Are unsure how to handle a manipulative ex during mediation. 💡 Need strategies to make mediation as productive as possible. 🛡 Are concerned about wasting time and money in mediation. 📚 Want tips to protect your legal and emotional boundaries. Key Ideas Discussed in This Episode: The Purpose of Mediation: Understanding its role in the divorce process and when it works best. Manipulative Tactics to Watch For: Recognising red flags during mediation. Preparation Tips: How to gather evidence and set boundaries before mediation. Strategies During Mediation: Getting small wins, staying focused, and not falling into traps. Post-Mediation Steps: Following up with offers and using mediation outcomes in court, even if no agreement is reached. Common Pitfalls: “Don’t be surprised if” scenarios, including last-minute walkouts and wild demands. Emotional Management: How to stay calm and avoid frustration when things don’t go as planned. Links & Resources Mentioned: Course Enrolment: Join our Divorce Blueprint Course www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/enrol before the deadline to get personalised guidance, legal education, and emotional support from Laura and Lynette. Platinum spots are limited—sign up now to secure your place. 4VOICES https://www.4voices.org.au/ Christmas Appeal https://4voiceschristmasappeal.raiselysite.com/ Episodes Mentioned in this 8 Ways to Protect yourself from DARVO and your Narcissistic Ex during Family Court https://youtu.be/pRMOfozwBKs?si=tDmJwHO3ch-uYhTg Mediation and negotiation tips for divorcing an ex with narcissistic behaviors / Ep. 99 https://youtu.be/JYqqDyWa5ns?si=k7G6OfpMwPP1Hqgg Costs, Family Court and Calderbank Offers / Ep. 65 https://youtu.be/0OKhDB8s3As?si=54omWq46LHn_Eb6R Do I really need a lawyer for divorce mediation or family dispute resolution? https://youtu.be/GB2lJftxdh4?si=BgdkYJrQTeokTlSK Master Your Divorce Negotiations: The Iron Fist Within the Velvet Glove Technique / Ep. 109 https://youtu.be/JSYc-yun-jM?si=VCefzLZb-ie-f1m9 Emergency Contacts: WOMEN'S SHELTER SERVICE LEGAL AID Lifeline: 13 11 14 Mensline Australia: 1300 789 978 Kids Help Line: 1800 551 800 Aboriginal Family Domestic Violence Hotline: 1800 019 123 Relationships Australia Police: 000 DVConnect Womensline: 1800 811 811 DV Connect Mensline: 1800 600 636 National DV line: 1800 737 732 (1800 RESPECT) Thank you for tuning in to this episode. We hope these strategies empower you to handle mediation with confidence and clarity. If you found this episode helpful, please rate, review, and subscribe. Every share helps others find support during difficult times. Stay strong—you’ve got this. Disclaimer: This podcast episode provides general legal education for Australians and is not a substitute for legal advice. Every situation is unique, so seek personalized legal advice tailored to your circumstances. 00:00 Introduction and Overview 01:06 The Importance of Mediation in Divorce 02:23 Recognising Manipulative Tactics during divorce 03:53 Pre-Mediation Strategies for mediating with a narcissist or manipulative type 06:23 During Mediation: What to Expect 10:08 What can you do Post-Mediation 20:23 Making the Most of a Failed Mediation 25:41 What about Unrealistic Demands in Mediation 26:34 Preparing for Mediation Roadblocks 28:51 Handling Unexpected Settlement Outcomes 30:23 How to Deal with Manipulative Tactics 36:55 The Importance of Legal Representation 38:56 Lowering Expectations and Emotional Preparation for Mediation 43:41 Final Thoughts and Additional Resources #familycourt #familylaw #narcissist #narcissisticabuse #divorcinganarcissist #divorcesettlement #divorceplanning #familylawattorney #divorcesupport #mediation #divorcelawyer #divorcepodcast #childsupport #custodybattle
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46:51
Separation to Settlement: The Essential Steps from Start to Finish
Facing the journey from separation to settlement can feel overwhelming and uncertain, but you’re not alone. In this episode, Laura and Lynette take you through the seven essential stages of the divorce process, from making the initial decision to separate, all the way to moving forward after your settlement. They share practical tips, emotional insights, and legal education to help you make empowered choices at every step. Whether you're at the beginning of this journey or somewhere in the middle, this episode offers a roadmap to guide you through. Listen to This Episode If You: 🌟 Are just starting your divorce journey and don’t know what comes next. ❓ Need help understanding the steps from separation to settlement. 💡 Want tips on managing property settlements, parenting plans, and legal agreements. 🛡 Are facing challenges with a high-conflict or manipulative ex. 📚 Want to learn how to move forward emotionally and financially after the settlement is done. Key Ideas Discussed in This Episode: Deciding to Separate: Understanding the importance of making the decision and how to document it for legal purposes. Living Under One Roof: Strategies for managing separation when you’re still sharing a home due to financial or housing constraints. Understanding Your Legal Rights: Why seeking legal education or advice early is critical to protect yourself. Property and Financial Settlements: The steps involved in dividing assets, debts, and managing disclosure obligations. Parenting Plans and Agreements: How to create effective parenting arrangements that prioritise the best interests of your children. Finalising Legal Documents: What you need to know about consent orders, mediation, and navigating the court system if necessary. Moving Forward After Divorce: Tips for reclaiming your independence, managing finances, and building a new life. RESOURCES Course Enrolment: Join our Divorce Blueprint Course www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/enrol before the deadline to get personalised guidance, legal education, and emotional support from Laura and Lynette. Platinum spots are limited—sign up now to secure your place. Emergency Contacts: LEGAL AID https://www.legalaid.qld.gov.au/ Lifeline: 13 11 14 Kids Help Line: 1800 551 800 Aboriginal Family Domestic Violence Hotline: 1800 019 123 Relationships Australia 1300 364 277 Police: 000 DVConnect Womensline: 1800 811 811 (24 hours, 7 days a week) DV Connect Mensline: 1800 600 636 National DV line: 1800 737 732 (1800 RESPECT) Mensline Australia: 1300 789 978 Thank you for tuning in to this episode. We hope it gives you clarity and confidence to take the next steps in your journey. Don’t forget to check out our course for step-by-step guidance and support through every stage of your divorce. If you found this episode helpful, please rate, review, and subscribe. Stay strong, and remember—you’ve got this. Disclaimer: This podcast episode provides general legal education for Australians and is not a substitute for legal advice. Every situation is unique, and it’s important to seek independent legal advice tailored to your circumstances. 00:00 Introduction to the 7 Steps from Separation to Settlement 01:34 How to Make the Decision to Separate 03:36 Can you Be Separated Under One Roof in Divorce 06:51 How to find out Your Legal Rights and Obligations in Divorce 10:46 How to Divide Assets, Property, and Debt in Divorce 14:44 How to Create Parenting Plans and Arrangements 19:24 How to Navigate Legal Paperwork and Mediation in Divorce 20:57 How to learn about Divorce Applications and Time Limits 22:35 How to avoid the Emotional Rollercoaster of Divorce 23:48 How to get Empowerment Through Knowledge and Support in Divorce 27:28 How to Move Forward After Divorce 33:29 How to Join Our Supportive Divorce Community
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36:34
Three Things I Wish I Knew Before Divorce + Free Webinar Invite
BONUS mini episode: Divorce is a challenging journey, and there are so many things we wish we’d known before starting out. In this special episode, I share three key insights I learned along the way—insights that could save you time, stress, and money. From setting firm boundaries to creating a clear plan and building a strong support system, these lessons are invaluable for anyone facing separation or divorce. And there’s more! Next week, we’re hosting a free, live webinar designed to support you wherever you are in your divorce journey. This session will cover everything from practical advice on setting boundaries and protecting your finances to tips for handling high-conflict communication. Join us for actionable insights and a live Q&A session with my mum, a family law expert. Webinar registration link https://www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/divorcewebinarregistration Listen to This Episode If You: 🌟 Are beginning your divorce journey and need a roadmap to help guide your decisions. ❓ Want to hear practical, first-hand tips from someone who’s been through it. 💡 Need insights on handling emotional and financial boundaries during divorce. 🛡 Are curious about what our free webinar will cover and how it can help you. 📚 Want to learn how to build a strong support system to get through challenging times. Key Ideas Discussed in This Episode: Setting Firm Boundaries: The importance of defining clear emotional and practical boundaries. Creating a Plan: How having a roadmap can help you feel more in control and prepared. Building a Support System: Why having friends, family, or a professional by your side is invaluable. DIVORCE Webinar Details: What to expect from our upcoming live webinar, including actionable insights and a live Q&A with a family law specialist. Webinar Highlights: Topics Covered: Boundaries, financial protection, handling high-conflict communication, and more. Live Q&A: Ask your specific questions and receive advice from a family law expert. Privacy Guaranteed: Participate as much or as little as you like in a safe, confidential space. Limited Spots: Click the link in our show notes or visit thedivorcecourse.com.au to save your seat! Emergency Contacts: WOMEN'S SHELTER SERVICE LEGAL AID Lifeline: 13 11 14 Mensline Australia: 1300 789 978 Kids Help Line: 1800 551 800 Aboriginal Family Domestic Violence Hotline: 1800 019 123 Relationships Australia Police: 000 DVConnect Womensline: 1800 811 811 (24 hours, 7 days a week) DV Connect Mensline: 1800 600 636 National DV line: 1800 737 732 (1800 RESPECT) Thank you for tuning in to this episode! We hope these insights make your journey a little easier and empower you to take control of the process. And remember, don’t miss out on our final free webinar of the year next week—it’s an incredible opportunity to learn, ask questions, and find support. See you there! Disclaimer: This podcast episode provides general legal education for Australians and is not a substitute for legal advice. Every situation is unique, and it’s important to seek independent legal advice tailored to your circumstances. 00:00 Introduction and Setting Expectations 00:03 Three Things I Wish I Knew Before Divorce 00:17 Importance of Setting Boundaries with your ex 00:31 Having a Plan when going through the divorce process 00:52 Power of a Support System when facing divorce 01:08 Exciting Divorce Webinar Announcement 01:15 Webinar Details and Benefits 02:05 Addressing Concerns and Privacy 03:07 Final Thoughts and How to Register
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3:34
When Divorce isn't the End: Handling Legal & Post-Separation Abuse
If you’ve ever felt that your ex is using the legal system to keep you trapped or that you’re facing ongoing harassment, this episode provides the support and strategies you need. Divorce may mean separation, but sometimes, for those dealing with high-conflict exes, the abuse continues well after the split. In this episode, we discuss five key strategies to manage and escape post-separation abuse purgatory. From court misuse to constant control tactics, this episode offers crucial help for protecting yourself legally, emotionally, and financially. Listen to This Episode If You: 🌟 Are experiencing legal harassment or ongoing control tactics post-divorce. ❓ Want to know how to protect yourself from manipulative use of the court system. 💡 Need strategies for setting firm boundaries against a high-conflict ex. 🛡 Are navigating the court process with an ex who refuses to cooperate on settlements. 📚 Want insights on how recent Family Law changes impact post-separation dynamics. Key Ideas Discussed in This Episode: Understanding Post-Separation Abuse: What it is, how it manifests, and why it’s so pervasive. Central Practice Directions: How this court directive aims to reduce misuse of the legal system. Section 117C Offers: Leveraging financial penalties to discourage frivolous court actions. Legal Documentation: Keeping a record of your ex’s actions and the importance of filing timelines. Emotional Boundaries: Techniques to mentally distance yourself from ongoing harassment. Disclaimer: This podcast episode provides general discussion for Australians and is not a substitute for legal advice in any way at all. Every situation is unique, and it’s important to seek personalised legal advice tailored to your circumstances. When Divorce isn't the End: Handling Legal & Post-Separation Abuse Related Episodes that may be helpful: Post Separation Abuse Wheel Episode https://youtu.be/YALj5wsoe6k?si=OZp5WhOwyR7Omkyf How to divorce a statue https://youtu.be/tM75QvgjM_0?si=9tAnY9EXLu7JjcOS Family Court Vs Settling https://youtu.be/gYpW3znoY28?si=NvrUKsGVIlMt8WNC When your ex files in court - response to initiating application https://youtu.be/qTHDgWTjF1A?si=rETvrOrpMKf_IwzZ Navigating Community Legal Services https://youtu.be/4sEUhu6r07Q?si=Qjla_vk0NAZ2eS_U Decoding a word salad letter like a lawyer https://youtu.be/k0AhA3MIjM0?si=onpRY7wU7DTeC63Q Free Resources & Links: CENTRAL PRACTICE DIRECTIONS https://www.fcfcoa.gov.au/fl/pd/fam-cpd Section 117c of the Family Law Act https://classic.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/cth/consol_act/fla1975114/s117c.html Free Webinar registration link https://www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/divorcewebinarregistration Emergency Contacts: WOMEN'S SHELTER SERVICE LEGAL AID Lifeline: 13 11 14 Mensline Australia: 1300 789 978 Kids Help Line: 1800 551 800 Aboriginal Family Domestic Violence Hotline: 1800 019 123 Relationships Australia Police: 000 DVConnect Womensline: 1800 811 811 (24 hours, 7 days a week) DV Connect Mensline: 1800 600 636 National DV line: 1800 737 732 (1800 RESPECT) Thank you for tuning in to this episode on managing post-separation abuse. We hope these strategies offer you the tools and confidence to protect yourself and find peace beyond the courtroom. If you found this episode helpful, please rate, review, and subscribe. Every rating helps others find support during difficult transitions. Stay strong and take care. Disclaimer: This podcast episode provides general discussion for Australians and is not a substitute for legal advice in any way at all. Every situation is unique, and it’s important to seek personalised legal advice tailored to your circumstances. 00:00 Introduction to Post Separation Abuse 00:23 Trigger Warnings and Support Resources 01:06 Podcast Introduction and Goals 01:26 Understanding Post Separation Abuse 03:26 Legal Protections: Central Practice Direction 11:56 Legal Protections: Section 117C 16:40 Taking Legal Action: Going to Court 22:41 New Legal Measures: Harmful Proceedings 23:12 Register Today! 23:22 Understanding Harmful Proceedings 24:20 Court's Role in Handling Harmful Litigants 27:56 Strategies for Dealing with Legal Abuse 33:04 Building Emotional Resilience 37:55 Support and Resources 38:52 Listener Feedback and Conclusion
This Mother and Daughter duo discuss and cover the legal stages and steps that you will face on your way to freedom through divorce. These are practical and real discussions with Lyn Galvin a family lawyer of 35 years experience and her daughter Laura a divorced mother of three. Laura helps turn her mother's lawyer jargon into something everyone will understand. Lyn shares all her tips and practical advice on separating. Through this podcast they aim to help you through your Australian divorce or de-facto separation to make it more cost effective and less stressful.
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