Listen to This Episode If You: 🌟 Are navigating a parenting plan or consent or court orders for children at different stages of development. ❓ Want to understand how the court views plans for babies and the differing age groups all the way to teenagers. 💡 Are trying to figure out how to create a flexible and adaptable parenting plan as your child grows. 🛡 Are dealing with high-conflict ex-partners and need strategies to protect your child's best interests. 📚 Want to learn more about how...

When going through a divorce and dividing assets, there's an essential factor that many people overlook or have no idea about: future needs. In this episode, we discuss what "future needs" mean in family law in Australia, how they are considered by the court, and how they can significantly affect the division of property. From your health and age to your earning capacity and children’s future, understanding these factors is crucial for a fair property settlement. We also touch on the future...

Are you wondering if you really need a lawyer for mediation or family dispute resolution? In this episode, we discuss the ins and outs of mediation and whether you really need a lawyer by your side. Explore the different types of meditations, the pros and cons of having legal representation, and pick up some helpful tips for those on a tight budget who may not be able to afford a lawyer. If you're wondering how to approach mediation in your divorce journey—whether it’s about property...

The DARVO method—Deny, Attack, Reverse Victim and Offender—is a tactic often employed by narcissists in legal battles, particularly during divorce or family court cases. In this episode, we shed light on the DARVO strategy and share eight essential ways to protect yourself against it. Whether you’re facing family violence court, property settlement agreements, or a child custody battle, these insights will empower you to stay calm, gather evidence, and ensure your truth is heard. Disclaimer:...

Are you feeling like your lawyer isn't telling your full story? In this episode, Laura and Lynette dive into the issue of legal gatekeeping and how it can impact your divorce case. They discuss why it's crucial for your lawyer to present all the relevant facts, including those that might be uncomfortable or distressing about Family Violence or Coercive Control. With new property legislation potentially on the horizon in Australia, it's more important than ever to ensure your story is heard,...

In every divorce, there are two primary positions people find themselves in: sitting pretty or completely overstressed. In this episode, Laura and Lynette break down these common divorce dynamics and provide strategies to help you navigate whichever position you're in. Whether you're feeling trapped in a gilded cage with everything provided for you, or you're overwhelmed with stress, paying the bills, and managing all the responsibilities, this episode offers practical advice on how to shift...

Divorce is often described as a journey, and just like any journey, it requires navigation tools to get to your destination successfully. In this episode, Laura and Lynette use the analogy of driving a car to discuss how to handle the emotional and practical challenges of divorce. They break down the five essential "tools" you need to navigate this journey: your handbrake, gas pedal, reverse, steering wheel, and road map. Whether you’re dealing with gaslighting, running out of steam, or...

Divorce & property settlements are confusing enough, especially when it comes to recognizing all contributions. Educate yourself about some of the most overlooked non financial contributions you may have made that will help increase your percentage of the property pool.  In this episode, we discuss the often-overlooked aspects of contributions in property settlements, focusing on non-financial parenting contributions. Explore the surprising elements that might not be considered but can...

Are you struggling to document and present your experiences of coercive control or family violence in your paperwork or to your lawyer, mediator , police, court or counsellor? Feel like you have to KEEP telling your story and you wish there was a better way? Whether you're preparing for mediation, court, or consultations with your lawyer, effectively communicating these experiences is crucial for your case. In this episode, we cover simple ways to lay out your coercive control or family...

Custody handovers can be one of the most stressful aspects of co-parenting, often referred to as "handover hell." Whether it's a tense interaction with your ex or the emotional strain on your children, it's crucial to find ways to make these transitions as smooth as possible. In this episode, Laura and Lynette dive into practical strategies for handling custody handovers, discussing everything from setting clear boundaries to using neutral locations for exchanges. They explore how to make...

Are you in the process of getting divorced and need to find the right lawyer for your case? Choosing the right legal representation can be daunting, especially during an emotionally charged time. In this episode, Laura and Lynette dive into the ten essential steps and questions you need to consider when selecting a lawyer. They discuss the importance of finding a lawyer whose experience, ability, and personality align with your needs, and they offer practical advice on navigating this crucial...

Struggling with what to do with your ex's stuff after a separation or divorce? Whether it's a garage full of clutter, valuable memorabilia, or just everyday items left behind, dealing with an ex's belongings can be frustrating and emotionally draining. In this episode, Laura and Lynette discuss practical strategies for handling your ex's stuff, from boxing it up to negotiating its removal, all while considering the legal implications. They also explore how different scenarios—whether...

Are you struggling with understanding parental responsibility after a divorce or separation? Need strategies for handling parenting disagreements about major or minor decisions for your children? In Australia, who makes decisions for the children before there is a parenting plan or court order? What happens if you and your ex can't agree on a school, medical, or other major issue?  In this episode, Laura and an Australian Family Law Specialist Lynette break down the complexities of these...

Are you navigating a difficult divorce or separation? In this insightful episode, Laura and Lynette share five crucial steps to help you empower yourself through your divorce or de facto journey. They discuss how your actions, boundaries, self-affirmation, and standing up for yourself can significantly impact the outcome of your case. With practical legal education and empowering strategies, this episode is a must-listen for anyone facing a challenging breakup, especially if dealing with a...

Having to go into a witness box? About to go to a family court trial or a family violence hearing? Are you feeling anxious about stepping into the witness box? In this episode, we offer invaluable guidance on how to navigate this daunting experience. Whether you're involved in family law  court proceedings or dealing with family violence or domestic violence trial, this episode provides ten essential tips to help you stay calm and composed. DOWNLOAD OUR PRINTABLE WITNESS BOX TIP SHEET FROM...

Are you struggling to deal with and address post-separation abuse? TRIGGER WARNING: Listener Discretion Advised: Domestic & Family Violence, Post Separation Abuse, Coercive Control and Suicide is mentioned in this episode. In this helpful episode, we discuss the various forms of abuse that can persist even after leaving an abusive relationship and what you can do about it. Using insights from the "Purple Book," Laura and Lynette (a family law expert) explore the patterns of coercive...

Ever wondered what the deal is when it comes to mortgages during a divorce or de facto separation under Australian law? In this episode, we tackle the daunting topic head-on. Together with my mother, Lynette Galvin, a family law expert with 35 years of experience, we address commonly asked questions about mortgage responsibilities, court handling of joint mortgages, and strategies for dealing with uncooperative ex-partners before you’ve gotten your property settlement. Whether you're dealing...

In this special bonus episode of The Divorce Course Podcast, host Laura Furiosi and her mother, Lynette Galvin, an experienced family lawyer with 35 years of expertise, discuss the latest updates to the Family Law Act and to their course. Listen in to learn how these updates can guide you through your separation or divorce process more effectively. Key Insights: Recent Amendments to the Australian Family Law Act: The Family Law Act and the rules for the Federal Circuit and Family...

Are you facing a challenging divorce or separation and looking for ways to save on legal fees by doing some of it yourself? Do you want to take control of your situation and handle some aspects independently? Listen to this episode to discover "Five Things You Can Do Yourself Without Lawyers to Keep Your Costs Down." Laura, a divorced mother of three, and her mother Lynette Galvin, a family law expert with 35 years of experience, share practical steps you can manage on your own. From writing...

🤔 Are you facing a challenging divorce, separation, or co-parenting situation with a difficult ex-partner? Are you seeking effective strategies to handle criticism, control, and over-explaining in your communications? 🎧 Listen to this episode to learn how the JADE Method can assist you in navigating these complexities, while being careful not to make mistakes that could come back to bite you in the Family Court or at Mediation with this ever-increasingly popular method. 💼 Learn about...

👥 Are you facing a divorce or family violence legal battle but are feeling financially overwhelmed? Tune in as Laura and Lyn discuss with special guest Kara Cook the vital role of legal aid and community legal services in providing support during divorce and domestic violence situations for those who cannot afford a lawyer. 💼 Worried about facing your ex in backed by a team of expensive lawyers in court? Kara, a community legal service expert, debunks the myth that legal representation...

Listen to this episode if you: Are frustrated with a disclosure issue in your divorce proceedings. Feel stumped by disclosure hurdles on your journey to freedom. Key Ideas: Reframing Full Disclosure: Learn why the term "full disclosure" can be ambiguous and potentially derail your settlement negotiations. Importance of Specificity: Understand the significance of specifying the exact documents or information necessary for your case rather than demanding blanket "full...

Has your ex just told you that they are the bread winner so therefore in the divorce they will get most of the property settlement? Has your ex just quit their job so they avoid paying child support? Has your ex downplayed your contributions in the marriage. Or are you just plain confused about what is considered in divorce when it comes to income/salary/wages. Well this episode is for you. Learn about how salary and earnings impact property division and child support in divorce proceedings....

Everyone seems to start talking about the percentage split in divorce for property straight away. In this episode, you will learn about the dangers of negotiating property split percentages prematurely in your divorce proceedings. We aim to help you discover why it's crucial to prioritise understanding the property pool before discussing percentages, as well as the potential financial and emotional costs of jumping into percentage negotiations too soon.  Understand how focusing on property...