loader from loading.io

Dealing with Narcissistic Lies in Divorce, Mediation & Family Court: 7 Survival Tips

The Divorce Course Podcast

Release Date: 01/07/2025

Is It Family Violence? Legal Definitions and Proof in Court show art Is It Family Violence? Legal Definitions and Proof in Court

The Divorce Course Podcast

🎧 Listen to This Episode If You… 🧾 Are trying to prove family violence in family court or to your lawyer 💔 Have experienced abuse and need to understand what counts under the law ⚖️ Want to know what evidence is helpful in a family law case 🕵️‍♀️ Are navigating post-separation abuse or coercive control 👨‍👩‍👧 Are worried about your children being exposed to family violence 📚 Want clarity on Australia’s legal definition of family violence  📌 Legal Disclaimer: This is a general discussion and not legal advice. Please see a qualified lawyer for...

info_outline Living Arrangement Decisions For Divorce — What to Know Before You Buy, Sell or Rent show art Living Arrangement Decisions For Divorce — What to Know Before You Buy, Sell or Rent

The Divorce Course Podcast

🎧 Listen to This Episode If You: 💸 Are weighing the pros and cons of buying, selling or renting post-divorce  ⚖️ Need to understand how your living decisions affect property settlement under family law  👨‍👧 Are parenting and want to make housing choices that work for your kids  🏡 Just separated and unsure about where to live 📉 Are worried about financial risk and long-term planning Episode Summary: Where will you live after your separation or divorce? It’s one of the most important—and emotionally loaded—questions you’ll face. In this episode,...

info_outline Divorcing an Abuser: Dealing with Post Separation Abuse show art Divorcing an Abuser: Dealing with Post Separation Abuse

The Divorce Course Podcast

🎧 Listen to This Episode If You… 😢 Feel like your ex is still trying to control you, even after the breakup 🧠 Want to understand how emotional abuse can continue post-separation 🛡️ Need strategies to protect your mental health during negotiations ⚖️ Are co-parenting with someone who is manipulative or abusive 👂 Want to learn what psychologists say about responding calmly and firmly 💔 Are feeling exhausted, anxious, or stuck in the dynamic even though it’s over 📚 Need real guidance from someone who understands trauma and divorce ⚠️ Trigger Warning: This...

info_outline The Hidden Costs of Doing Nothing – Why Waiting in Limbo Might Be Hurting You show art The Hidden Costs of Doing Nothing – Why Waiting in Limbo Might Be Hurting You

The Divorce Course Podcast

🎙️ Episode 198: The Hidden Costs of Doing Nothing – Why Waiting in Limbo Might Be Hurting You   🎧 Listen to This Episode If You: 🔁 Feel stuck or overwhelmed since separating 📅 Keep delaying property or parenting decisions 💔 Are hoping things might just “work out” without action 💸 Worry about legal costs or can’t afford a lawyer yet 🛑 Feel like taking action will start a fight 🚧 Want a plan but don’t know where to begin 🧭 Need clarity to move forward without fear ⚠️ Trigger Warning: Discussions include separation, family court, and financial and...

info_outline Family Law Mediation Secrets – What Your Mediator Wish You Understood show art Family Law Mediation Secrets – What Your Mediator Wish You Understood

The Divorce Course Podcast

🎧 Listen to This Episode If You: 🚪 You’re about to go to mediation and don’t know what to expect 📝 You want to know what documents and disclosures you actually need 😵‍💫 You’re anxious about seeing your ex in the same room 🧠 You want practical tips to mentally and emotionally prepare ⚖️ You want to give yourself the best chance of settling 👀 You’re worried your ex is manipulative or controlling 🎯 You want a checklist of exactly what to do before the big day Mediation can be one of the most powerful tools in your separation or divorce journey — but only if...

info_outline 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
 
More Episodes

Are you dealing with a manipulative or narcissistic type ex during your divorce? Is your ex lying to everyone during your divorce? In this episode, Laura and Lynette use Brandolini's Law—the concept that it takes much more effort to refute lies than to create them—and explore how it applies to family law. With practical strategies and actionable tips, they unpack how to deal with false allegations, overwhelming legal tactics, and post-separation abuse. Whether you’re facing mediation, legal letters, or the courtroom, this episode is packed with strategies to help you stay organized, conserve energy, and protect your peace.

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 situation.

Listen to This Episode If You:

  • 🌟 Are dealing with a narcissistic or manipulative ex during divorce.

  • ❓ Feel overwhelmed by false allegations or legal or post separation abuse.

  • 💡 Want to learn strategies to document and disprove lies effectively.

  • 🛡 Are struggling to conserve your energy and stay focused during legal battles.

  • 📚 Need tools to manage post-separation abuse in mediation or court.

 

Key Topics Discussed in This Episode:

  1. Understanding Brandolini’s Law:

    • The principle that it takes significantly more effort to refute lies than to create them.

    • How this applies to family law and dealing with false allegations.

  2. Steeling Yourself for Narcissistic Tactics:

    • How to prepare mentally and emotionally for lies and manipulations.

    • Why expecting the unexpected can give you the upper hand.

  3. Conserving Energy and Focus:

    • Tips for using your time and resources wisely when faced with endless false claims.

    • The importance of documenting everything from the start.

  4. Proving Credibility:

    • Demonstrating that your ex is an unreliable witness.

    • Why detailed documentation and evidence are critical for the court.

  5. Navigating Mediation and Court:

    • Strategies for dealing with falsehoods in affidavits and mediation sessions.

    • How to choose your battles based on the stage of your case.

  6. Self-Care During Legal Battles:

    • Managing the emotional toll of post-separation abuse.

    • Creating a safe space for yourself and your children.

 

 

Links & Resources Mentioned:

 

 

Emergency Contacts:

  • WOMEN'S SHELTER SERVICE: Call 1800 811 811

  • LEGAL AID: Visit Legal Aid

  • Lifeline: Call 13 11 14 for 24/7 crisis support and counseling.

  • Mensline Australia: Call 1300 789 978 for confidential support for men.

  • Kids Help Line: Call 1800 551 800 for young people needing help.

  • National Domestic Violence Hotline (1800 RESPECT): Call 1800 737 732

  • Aboriginal Family Domestic Violence Hotline: 1800 019 123

 

 

Final Thoughts:
Navigating lies and manipulations during divorce is exhausting, but you don’t have to do it alone. With the right strategies and support, you can overcome these tactics and come out stronger. Remember, organization and preparation are your best tools. Take it one step at a time—you’ve got this.

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 situation.

 

00:00 Introduction to Brandolini's Law and Narcissism in Divorce

00:21 New Year Greetings and Divorce Realities

01:32 Understanding Brandolini's Law

02:50 Applying Brandolini's Law to Divorce & Family Court

04:16 Seven Tips for Handling Narcissistic Exes in Divorce

06:03 Using Your Energy Wisely in Family Court

08:40 Proving Lies and Managing Distractions in Mediation or Family Court

20:43 Interim Hearings and Final Trials & Affidavits in Divorce

27:31 Mediation Strategies with a Narcissist 

32:48 Final Thoughts and Encouragement