What they don't tell you before divorce (but they should)!
Release Date: 10/01/2024
Child Custody In Divorce: The 10 Most Common Questions
The Divorce Course Podcast
In this eye-opening and practical episode,a seasoned family lawyer helps to unpack the 10 most frequently asked questions about child custody in Australia. Whether you're fresh out of a breakup, preparing for court, or trying to figure out what your rights are, this episode is packed with general education and emotional clarity every separated parent needs. From understanding how courts decide who gets custody, to navigating situations involving domestic violence, high-conflict co-parents, and parenting plans this episode helps you gain a better understanding of what's what in child custody...
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What your Lawyer Might Forget to Tell You: Unlocking Funds Before Divorce PROPERTY SETTLEMENT is Final
The Divorce Course Podcast
Feeling trapped in limbo while waiting for your property settlement to go through? You’re not alone — and there may be a way out. In this episode, I’m joined again by my mum, Lynette Galvin — a family lawyer with over 35 years of experience — and we’re talking about a powerful but underused legal option called early distribution of funds. This is a game-changer for anyone financially stuck during separation. Whether you’re separated under one roof, struggling to pay rent, or locked out of joint funds, this episode is full of practical ideas to help you understand some options....
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Are You a Victim of FINANCIAL Abuse? Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore & What the New Laws Might Mean for You
The Divorce Course Podcast
Are you? Learn about the signs of economic or financial abuse, hear some real-life examples of how economic abuse manifests in relationships and practical steps you can take to protect yourself and your financial future. Find out how it is legally recognized under the Australian Family Law Amendment Act 2024, and why it’s considered a form of coercive control. Also find out about the new laws effective from June 2025 and how they impact property settlements and financial disputes. 🚨 Trigger Warning: This episode discusses economic abuse and coercive control, which may be distressing...
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Divorce Myths That Could Cost You – Debunked!
The Divorce Course Podcast
Think you know what divorce looks like in Australia? Think again. In this episode, we're busting some of the most common myths that trip people up emotionally, financially, and legally during separation and divorce. Whether you’re at the start of your journey or knee-deep in negotiations, these misunderstandings could be holding you back or costing you big. Join Laura and her mum, Lynette Galvin — a family lawyer with 35+ years of experience — as they unpack 13 myths they hear all the time, including ones that cause fear, confusion, and prevent people from getting what they’re entitled...
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Is Your Ex Hiding Assets? How to Uncover the Truth in Divorce Disclosure
The Divorce Course Podcast
💰 Is your ex hiding assets? Are they draining joint accounts, concealing super, or transferring money to family and friends? You're not alone, and there are legal ways to uncover what's yours. Learn about the most common ways people try to hide assets in divorce, including trust funds, cash jobs, disappearing assets, and hidden overseas accounts. Find out how the Australian Family Court courts handle these cases, what legal tools you can use to track down missing assets, and what to consider doing before mediation or family court. If you’re frustrated by a lack of financial disclosure or...
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Is It Emotional Abuse? How to Identify & Protect Yourself in Divorce
The Divorce Course Podcast
Explore the tactics abusive partners use to maintain control, how emotional abuse can impact divorce and custody proceedings, and—most importantly—how to protect yourself, rebuild your confidence, and move forward with clarity. When emotional abuse in your relationship or divorce, it becomes confusing, isolating, and overwhelming. Many people don’t realize that abuse isn’t always physical—disrespect, manipulation, and control can be just as damaging, especially during separation. In this episode, we’re joined by Krasi Kirova, a clinical psychologist specializing in complex trauma,...
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How Covert Narcissists Weaponise Divorce (And What You Can Do About It) Episode 186
The Divorce Course Podcast
Have you just realized your ex might be a covert narcissist? Thought your separation was amicable,only to find yourself blindsided by manipulation and deceit? In this episode, we break down the six key signs of a covert narcissist during divorce, property settlement or coparenting. From playing the victim to using the legal system against you, we’ll help you spot the red flags and protect yourself. Listen to This Episode If You: ✅ Are going through a divorce or property settlement and feel like something is off. ❓ Want to understand the subtle tactics of a covert narcissist. 💰 Need to...
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Consent Order or BFA? & How to Make Sure Your Settlement Sticks
The Divorce Course Podcast
Are you going through a divorce property settlement and unsure whether to choose a Consent Order or a Binding Financial Agreement (BFA)? In this episode, we break down what they are and the key differences between the two. We also discuss the pitfalls and risks to keep in mind when navigating this. Listen to This Episode If You: ✅ Are going through a separation and need to divide property fairly. ❓ Want to know whether a Consent Order or a Financial Agreement is the better choice. 💰 Need to understand the costs involved in each option. ⚖️ Want to protect yourself from future...
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Child Support Battles: What They Don’t Tell You & How to Fight Back
The Divorce Course Podcast
Child Support Battles: What They Don’t Tell You & How to Fight Back Are you struggling with child support? Whether you’re battling a non-paying ex, dealing with inconsistent advice from child support agencies, or feeling overwhelmed by legal loopholes, you’re not alone. In this episode, Crystal Padooch, founder of Child Support Consultants, reveals the five critical things every parent should know about child support. With 14 years of experience, Crystal explains how the system really works, the common tactics some parents use to avoid paying, and what steps you can take to protect...
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Parental Alienation False Allegations: How Abusers Use It to Maintain Control 183
The Divorce Course Podcast
False Allegations of Parental Alienation: How Abusers Use It to Maintain Control 183 Learn about how abusers use parental alienation allegations to deflect from their abusive behavior and maintain their power. Explore how accusations of parental alienation can be weaponized against the healthy parent to continue coercive control or abuse, often leaving the targeted parent in a difficult legal and emotional battle. Disclaimer: This podcast provides general legal education and is not a substitute for independent legal advice. Always consult a qualified lawyer for guidance tailored to your...
info_outlineDo you ever wish you had a time machine to go back and give yourself advice before starting your divorce journey? In this episode, we share valuable insights and tips from listeners who have gone through it all. Together, we will break down some of the most important things people wish they had known before starting the process, from not rushing into decisions to custody issues. They also discuss some of the key mistakes to avoid, especially in high-conflict or narcissistic divorces. Whether you’re just starting out or deep into the process, this episode will offer practical advice to help guide you through your divorce with more confidence and clarity.
Listen to This Episode If You:
❓ Wonder how to gather the right information and evidence to protect yourself.
💡 Need to understand the importance of not rushing into decisions or being pressured by others.
🛡 Are navigating a high-conflict divorce and need strategies to protect yourself from manipulation.
📚 Want to learn how to create a strategy and stay organized during the divorce process.
🌟 Are at the beginning of your divorce and want advice on how to avoid common mistakes.
Key Ideas Discussed in This Episode:
Don’t Rush: Take your time to gather all your information before making any major decisions. Avoid being pressured into rushing through the process.
Collect and Organise Your Information: Get all your documents and information together before starting the legal process to avoid mistakes and delays.
Parenting Plans: Don’t force your children into uncomfortable situations—especially when the other parent may not be interested in the relationship.
Look Out for Hidden Assets: Learn how to identify secret bank accounts and other financial manipulations that may arise during a divorce.
Get a Lawyer Who Understands Narcissistic Behaviour: Make sure your lawyer knows how to handle high-conflict individuals who use manipulative tactics.
Court Orders for Sole Occupancy: Understand how to get your ex out of the house if needed, and the risks involved.
Don’t Settle Too Quickly: Take your time to evaluate any settlement offers and don’t let anyone pressure you into accepting less than what is fair.
Protect Your Mental Health: Treat the divorce process like a part-time job—don’t let it consume your entire life.
Links & Resources Mentioned in the Podcast:
Related Episodes:
How to Document Coercive Control - Communicating Coercive Control in Documents / Ep. 161
Record Keeping: Protecting Yourself
https://open.spotify.com/episode/4tNrLiwyDO07jnbzNVxe4m?si=OPR9iwTzQKOKc2HOHvcH-Q
Divorce Delay Tactics https://open.spotify.com/episode/2st3qxvJByN981xqZgPRIR?si=l0LL9935S0GAQ6Wx2qJhIg
Disclosure Dilemas Overcoming Disclosure Dilemmas: Your Path to Divorce Victory / Ep. 148
Divorce Budgeting 101: Understanding Legal Fees & Six Simple Saving Strategies / Ep. 119
Free Resources:
Property Settlement Checklist www.thedivorcecourse.com.au
Divorce Documentation Guide www.thedivorcecourse.com.au
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 listening to this episode. We hope these listener-shared insights and practical advice will help guide you through your divorce journey. Remember, you are not alone, and taking the time to understand and plan will make all the difference. If you found this episode helpful, please rate, review, and subscribe. Stay strong and take care.
Disclaimer: This podcast episode provides general legal education for Australians and is not a substitute for legal advice. Every situation is different, and it is important to seek independent legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances.
Contents of this Video
00:00 Introduction: Navigating Divorce
01:25 Key Tip: Don't Rush
02:43 Gathering Information: Collate Your Documents
04:00 Children and Visitation and Custody: Complexities and Considerations
05:38 Property Settlement Financial Precautions: Secret Bank Accounts and Abuse
08:22 Legal Strategies: Understanding Narcissistic Tactics
08:56 Court Orders: Sole Occupancy and Safety Concerns
10:50 Disclosure Challenges: Waiting for Information
12:33 Settlement Tips: Don't Settle for Less
15:14 Emotional Toll: The Full-Time Job of Divorce
20:24 Free Resources for Mediation and Negotiation
21:03 Is the System Child-Centred?
23:40 Dealing with Nasty In-Laws
27:03 Family Court Legal Costs and Settlements
29:34 Importance of Family Violence Protection Orders
34:46 Managing Expectations and Seeking Support in Divorce
38:16 Final Thoughts and Farewell