Separated for the Holidays? How to Manage Legal and Emotional Challenges
Release Date: 12/10/2024
Super Split Myths: Why Equalising Isnât Always Fair in Divorce
The Divorce Course Podcast
đ§ Listen to This Episode If You: đź You're negotiating your super split after divorce in Australia đ§ You've been told âletâs just equalise super â itâs fairâ đľâđŤ Youâre confused about what super is worth vs. cash đ¸ Youâre worried about being left worse off long-term 𧞠Youâve made non-financial contributions (like parenting or homemaking) âď¸ You want to make sure your property settlement is legally fair đ You suspect youâre being pressured into a bad deal Are you about to deal with your superannuation in your divorce or separation? Before you sign...
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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 areâ settlement offers. Whether youâre 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 youâre dealing with an avoidant or...
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What the 2025 Family Law Divorce Reforms Might Mean for You
The Divorce Course Podcast
Major Changes Are Coming to Family Law in Australia â Hereâs What Youâll want to Know In this episode, I sit down with my mum Lyn, our favourite straight-talking family lawyerâto 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 youâre currently separating, in court, or supporting someone going through it, these new laws could change the game for you. We also break down why...
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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 â and we walk you through the eight most common ways people settle property in Australia. Whether youâre hoping to keep the house, want a clean break, or are totally confused by super splitting, weâre breaking it all down for you. From simple percentage splits to creative asset swaps â and even the risks of doing absolutely nothing â this episode is your go-to guide for understanding your options. If...
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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? Youâre not alone â and there may be a way out. In this episode, Iâm joined again by my mum, Lynette Galvin â a family lawyer with over 35 years of experience â and weâre 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 youâre 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 Shouldnât 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 itâs 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. đ¨ Trigger Warning: This episode discusses economic abuse and coercive control, which may be distressing...
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Divorce Myths That Could Cost You â 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 youâre 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 â a family lawyer with 35+ years of experience â as they unpack 13 myths they hear all the time, including ones that cause fear, confusion, and prevent people from getting what theyâre entitled...
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Is Your Ex Hiding Assets? How to Uncover the Truth in Divorce Disclosure
The Divorce Course Podcast
đ° 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 youâre 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, andâmost importantlyâhow 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 donât realize that abuse isnât always physicalâdisrespect, manipulation, and control can be just as damaging, especially during separation. In this episode, weâre joined by Krasi Kirova, a clinical psychologist specializing in complex trauma,...
info_outlineListen to This Episode If You:
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đ Are navigating the holiday season post-separation or divorce.
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â Need guidance on legal deadlines and court closures during Christmas.
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đĄ Want tips for co-parenting and managing handovers with minimal stress.
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đĄ Are concerned about manipulative or high-conflict behavior during the holidays.
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đ Are looking for ideas to create new traditions and move forward emotionally.
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đTrying to figure out how to manage Christmas under the same roof this year.
Trigger warning: Domestic and Family Violence is discussed in this episode.
Disclaimer: This podcast provides general legal education and is not a substitute for personalized legal advice. Always consult a qualified lawyer for guidance tailored to your circumstances.
Separated for the Holidays? How to Manage Legal and Emotional Challenges
The holiday season can be particularly challenging for those navigating separation or divorce. In this episode, we offer practical tips and emotional support for managing legal matters, co-parenting, and the unique pressures of this time of year. We discuss everything from court closures and legal deadlines to handling difficult exes and creating new traditions with your kids. Whether youâre under the same roof with your ex, facing your first holiday alone, or co-parenting through conflict, this episode provides strategies to help you cope and thrive.
Key Topics Discussed:
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Legal Matters During the Holidays:
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Court closures in the Australian Family Court and deadlines during the Christmas and New Year period.
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What to consider doing if you receive unexpected legal documents from your ex.
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Emergency contacts for urgent legal applications.
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Making plans with your lawyer over the Christmas break.
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Co-Parenting Challenges:
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Managing Christmas handovers and shared custody arrangements.
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Shielding kids from parental conflict and ensuring their joy during the holidays.
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Tips for planning and communicating with your ex to reduce misunderstandings.
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Living Under One Roof:
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Strategies for surviving the holiday period with your ex in the same house.
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Emotional and practical tips to maintain peace for yourself and your children.
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Safety Planning:
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Recognizing heightened risks of family violence during the holidays.
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Developing a safety plan and resources for immediate help.
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Building New Traditions:
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Overcoming the emotional challenges of changing family dynamics.
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Ideas for creating meaningful and joyful new traditions with your kids.
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How to embrace "adult Christmas" and find happiness in new experiences.
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Self-Care and Support:
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Managing loneliness and isolation during the holidays.
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Connecting with friends, family, or community groups for support.
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Planning your day to stay busy and emotionally grounded.
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Final Thoughts:
The holidays can be a difficult time, but with the right strategies and support, you can navigate them successfully. Whether youâre dealing with a challenging ex, managing legal deadlines, or starting new traditions, remember: this season is temporary, and brighter days lie ahead.
Disclaimer: This podcast provides general legal education and is not a substitute for personalized legal advice. Always consult a qualified lawyer for guidance tailored to your circumstances.
Happy holidays from all of us at the Divorce Course Podcast. â¤ď¸
Links & Resources Mentioned:
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Episodes Mentioned in this
The Doâs and Donâts of being separated under one roof
https://youtu.be/jdi4snqP_I4?si=6zmQS1XAYZPkm_gG
Handover Hell: how to deal handover
https://youtu.be/YphzOPZmC3k?si=YSOHinsBvaxvLlX5
Co Parenting & Navigating the School Holidays with the Four Divorce Personality Types / Ep. 79
https://youtu.be/vnUo5oEGQRo?si=sB49DNfdTYHPqGPo
No No No to Ho Ho Ho Divorce During Christmas
https://youtu.be/DoO7aNw9ja0?si=8lgyHLtPdsnimn91
10 essential boundaries in divorce
https://youtu.be/5KSMYe6ctVE?si=yfH4diXg8GWBd6ba
Emergency Contacts:
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WOMEN'S SHELTER SERVICE
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LEGAL AID
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Lifeline: 13 11 14
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Mensline Australia: 1300 789 978
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Kids Help Line: 1800 551 800
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Aboriginal Family Domestic Violence Hotline: 1800 019 123
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Relationships Australia
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Police: 000
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DVConnect Womensline: 1800 811 811
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DV Connect Mensline: 1800 600 636
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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 strongâyouâve 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
01:30 Legal Matters During the Holidays
03:44 Challenges of Living Under One Roof
07:49 Co-Parenting and Custody Issues
18:02 Dealing with Manipulative Ex-Partners
22:54 Navigating Custody Without Court Orders
23:11 Creating New Traditions After Separation
27:59 Handling Emotional Challenges During Holidays
29:16 Legal Tips for Holiday Custody Arrangements
30:26 Planning and Self-Care for a Better Holiday
34:41 Dealing with High-Conflict Exes
37:21 Final Thoughts and Encouragement