loader from loading.io

When Divorce isn't the End: Handling Legal & Post-Separation Abuse

The Divorce Course Podcast

Release Date: 10/29/2024

Super Split Myths: Why Equalising Isn’t Always Fair in Divorce show art Super Split Myths: Why Equalising Isn’t Always Fair in Divorce

The Divorce Course Podcast

🎧 Listen to This Episode If You: 💼 You're negotiating your super split after divorce in Australia 🧐 You've been told “let’s just equalise super — it’s fair” 😵‍💫 You’re confused about what super is worth vs. cash 💸 You’re worried about being left worse off long-term 🧾 You’ve made non-financial contributions (like parenting or homemaking) ⚖️ You want to make sure your property settlement is legally fair 👀 You suspect you’re being pressured into a bad deal Are you about to deal with your superannuation in your divorce or separation? Before you sign...

info_outline Divorce Deals 101: What to Know Before You Make or Accept a Deal With Your Ex show art Divorce Deals 101: What to Know Before You Make or Accept a Deal With Your Ex

The Divorce Course Podcast

One of the most underestimated parts of separation are— settlement offers. Whether you’re negotiating parenting arrangements, property division, or both, knowing how and when to make (or respond to) an offer can save you stress, time, and serious money. We break down how settlement offers work, when to consider using Calderbank letters, how Section 117C of the Family Law Act affects legal costs, and the emotional traps that can trip you up during negotiation. We also talk about avoiding lowball traps, the risks of ignoring offers, and what to do if you’re dealing with an avoidant or...

info_outline What the 2025 Family Law Divorce Reforms Might Mean for You show art What the 2025 Family Law Divorce Reforms Might Mean for You

The Divorce Course Podcast

Major Changes Are Coming to Family Law in Australia – Here’s What You’ll want to Know In this episode, I sit down with my mum  Lyn, our favourite straight-talking family lawyer—to unpack the biggest Family Law changes coming into effect on June 10, 2025. We dive into how these legal reforms will impact property settlements, family violence considerations, companion animals (yes, pets!), financial disclosure rules, and more. Whether you’re currently separating, in court, or supporting someone going through it, these new laws could change the game for you. We also break down why...

info_outline Beyond 50/50: Creative & Legal Ways to Settle Property in Divorce in Australia show art Beyond 50/50: Creative & Legal Ways to Settle Property in Divorce in Australia

The Divorce Course Podcast

Are you trying to figure out how to divide the property after your separation or divorce? In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with my mum, but also an experienced family lawyer — and we walk you through the eight most common ways people settle property in Australia. Whether you’re hoping to keep the house, want a clean break, or are totally confused by super splitting, we’re breaking it all down for you. From simple percentage splits to creative asset swaps — and even the risks of doing absolutely nothing — this episode is your go-to guide for understanding your options. If...

info_outline Child Custody In Divorce: The 10 Most Common Questions show art 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...

info_outline What your Lawyer Might Forget to Tell You: Unlocking Funds Before Divorce PROPERTY SETTLEMENT is Final show art 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....

info_outline Are You a Victim of FINANCIAL Abuse? Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore & What the New Laws Might Mean for You show art 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...

info_outline Divorce Myths That Could Cost You – Debunked! show art 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...

info_outline Is Your Ex Hiding Assets? How to Uncover the Truth in Divorce Disclosure show art 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...

info_outline Is It Emotional Abuse? How to Identify & Protect Yourself in Divorce show art 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,...

info_outline
 
More Episodes

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:

Free Resources & Links:

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