The Divorce Course Podcast Laura & Lyn

👥 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 guarantees victory, emphasising that the law is the ultimate arbiter and will help put your mind at ease.
⚖️ Learn about the recent legislative changes, including ten days of paid domestic violence leave, empowering survivors to seek support without fear of repercussions at work.
🏫 Discover the tips and steps to take to access a community legal service in your area. 
Navigating Legal Aid & Community Legal Services: Your Lifeline for DV & Divorce
Listen to this episode if you:
Need guidance on legal aid and community services.
Want to understand how community legal services or legal aid works.
Seek insight into workplace entitlements if going through family violence.
Are interested in remote legal assistance.
Require help navigating family law.
 
Key Ideas:
Access to legal aid and community legal services for domestic violence and divorce.
Geographic accessibility and remote assistance via technology.
Legal safeguards regardless of legal representation.
Proportionality in legal representation and judicial scrutiny.
Workplace rights and entitlements for those experiencing domestic violence.
Availability of ten days of paid domestic violence leave in Australia.
Supportive workplace cultures and confidentiality.
Multifaceted challenges faced by individuals navigating domestic violence situations.
 
This episode provides valuable guidance for anyone looking to get help through community legal programs, women's legal services or legal aid. 
Please note that this podcast provides general education only and is not legal advice. This is just one lawyer's opinion of the family court's views in Australia. Do not base your case on anything mentioned in this episode unless it is first discussed and approved by your personal lawyer. Always seek independent legal advice, as every situation is different. By listening to this show, you are agreeing that it and the company that runs it are not liable for the outcome of your case.
 
For Full Show Notes, go to www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/blog
For more support, visit www.thedivorcecourse.com.au
 
Useful Resources:
Click here for our free before you leave checklist 
Click here for our free mediation checklist
Sign up here for our next free online webinar



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 on 000
DVConnect Womensline on 1800 811 811 (24 hours, 7 days a week) Note: This number is not recorded on your phone bill
DV Connect Mensline on 1800 600 636
National DV line on 1800 737 732.1800RESPECT 1800 737 732
 
Don't forget to hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming practical steps and guidance for your divorce or de facto separation. If you found this episode helpful, please leave a rating and a review to help others. Thank you.
 
Please note that this podcast provides general education only and is not legal advice. Always seek independent legal advice, as every situation is different.

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 disclosure."
Leveraging Lack of Disclosure: Discover how the absence of disclosure from the other party can sometimes work to your advantage in court proceedings.
Taking Proactive Steps: Explore proactive strategies for navigating disclosure issues and maintaining control over your divorce process.
Reality Check: Gain insights into conducting a reality check on the importance of requested documents and the potential consequences of withholding them.
Overcoming Disclosure Dilemmas: Your Path to Divorce Victory
This episode provides valuable guidance for anyone grappling with disclosure challenges in divorce proceedings, offering practical tips and a fresh perspective on navigating this often-frustrating aspect of the legal process.
Please note that this podcast provides general education only and is not legal advice. This is just one lawyer's opinion of the family court's views in Australia. Do not base your case on anything mentioned in this episode unless it is first discussed and approved by your personal lawyer. Always seek independent legal advice, as every situation is different. By listening to this show, you are agreeing that it and the company that runs it are not liable for the outcome of your case.
For Full Show Notes, go to www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/blog
For more support, visit www.thedivorcecourse.com.au
Please note that this podcast provides general education only and is not legal advice. This is just one lawyer's opinion of the family court's views in Australia. Do not base your case on anything mentioned in this episode unless it is first discussed and approved by your personal lawyer. Always seek independent legal advice, as every situation is different. By listening to this show, you are agreeing that it and the company that runs it are not liable for the outcome of your case.
Other Podcast Episodes Mentioned 
 
https://link.chtbl.com/divorcepodcastforty (DIY Divorce Disclosure and Discovery, for property settlement & child support)
 
https://link.chtbl.com/divorcepodcasteightynine (Disclosure: the what, why, when & how of disclosure for divorce or de facto separation.)
 
https://link.chtbl.com/DivorceEpisode116 (Deadlocks in Divorce Strategies for Non-Disclosure, Valuation Fights and Stonewalling)
 
Useful Resources:
Click here for our free before you leave checklist 
Click here for our free mediation checklist
Sign up here for our next free online webinar
 
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 on 000
DVConnect Womensline on 1800 811 811 (24 hours, 7 days a week) Note: This number is not recorded on your phone bill
DV Connect Mensline on 1800 600 636
National DV line on 1800 737 732.1800RESPECT 1800 737 732
 
Don't forget to hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming practical steps and guidance for your divorce or de facto separation. If you found this episode helpful, please leave a rating and a review to help others. Thank you.
 
Please note that this podcast provides general education only and is not legal advice. Always seek independent legal advice, as every situation is different.
 

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. We aim to demystify the most common misconceptions floating around at the moment and put your mind at ease. 
Join our insightful discussion around the concept of earnings, and let us shed light for you on how the courts assess both financial and non-financial contributions when dividing assets. Additionally, learn about the concept of "future needs," which encompasses various factors such as earnings, age, health, and childcare responsibilities. 
By the end of the episode, listeners will gain valuable knowledge and a clearer understanding of how the court strives for equitable, rather than necessarily equal, distribution in divorce cases.
Key Points:
Debunking the myth that higher income guarantees a larger share of the property pool.
Understanding how courts evaluate financial and non-financial contributions during property division.
Exploring the concept of "future needs" and its significance in divorce settlements.
Recognizing the court's aim for equitable distribution, considering various factors beyond income alone.
Learning about the word “CAPACITY” and what it means in the court and what it means for CHILD SUPPORT & PROPERTY SETTLEMENT
Listen to this episode if you want to:
Gain clarity on how salary and earnings impact property settlement and child support.
Understand the factors considered by courts when dividing assets in divorce cases.
Learn about the concept of "future needs" and its role in achieving fair outcomes in divorce settlements.
Learn about what to do if your ex quits their job to try not pay child support.
For Full Show Notes, go to www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/blog
For more support, visit www.thedivorcecourse.com.au
Please note that this podcast provides general education only and is not legal advice. This is just one lawyer's opinion of the family court's views in Australia. Do not base your case on anything mentioned in this episode unless it is first discussed and approved by your personal lawyer. Always seek independent legal advice, as every situation is different. By listening to this show, you are agreeing that it and the company that runs it are not liable for the outcome of your case.
Other Podcast Episodes Mentioned 
Your Future Needs and how it affects your divorce and property settlement Part 3: Sorting your property settlement in divorce
 
How to divorce a statue: 7 tips to divorce an avoidant ex even if they stonewall you or disappear.
 
Surprising issues that are irrelevant in divorce & separation proceedings. So you can focus all your efforts on the things that your mediator, divorce lawyer or judge will actually care about.
 
Property Settlement: What is Fair?
 
Useful Resources:
Click here for our free before you leave checklist 
Click here for our free mediation checklist
Sign up here for our next free online webinar
 
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 on 000
DVConnect Womensline on 1800 811 811 (24 hours, 7 days a week) Note: This number is not recorded on your phone bill
DV Connect Mensline on 1800 600 636
National DV line on 1800 737 732.1800RESPECT 1800 737 732
 
Don't forget to hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming practical steps and guidance for your divorce or de facto separation. If

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 pool valuations can lead to smoother negotiations and prevent misunderstandings down the line. 
Listen to gain practical tips for dealing with different divorce personality types, from amicable to high conflict, and learn strategies for navigating negotiations effectively. With valuable insights and cautionary tales, this episode provides essential guidance for anyone facing divorce negotiations, helping you avoid costly mistakes and achieve a fair outcome.
Please note that this podcast provides general education only and is not legal advice. This is just one lawyer's opinion of the family court's views in Australia. Do not base your case on anything mentioned in this episode unless it is first discussed and approved by your personal lawyer. Always seek independent legal advice, as every situation is different. By listening to this show, you are agreeing that it and the company that runs it are not liable for the outcome of your case.
Listen to this episode if you want to:
Learn why negotiating percentages early in divorce proceedings can be detrimental
Understand the importance of focusing on the property pool before discussing percentages
Gain practical tips for dealing with different divorce personality types
Avoid costly mistakes and achieve a fair outcome in divorce negotiations
 
The Pitfalls of Premature PERCENTAGE NEGOTIATIONS in Divorce property settlement
Don't Miss Out On These Key Points:
The dangers of negotiating percentages prematurely in divorce proceedings
The importance of understanding the property pool before discussing percentages
Potential financial and emotional costs of jumping into percentage negotiations too soon
Practical advice for dealing with different divorce personality types
Strategies for navigating negotiations effectively and achieving a fair outcome
For Full Show Notes, go to www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/blog
For more support, visit www.thedivorcecourse.com.au
Please note that this podcast provides general education only and is not legal advice. This is just one lawyer's opinion of the family court's views in Australia. Do not base your case on anything mentioned in this episode unless it is first discussed and approved by your personal lawyer. Always seek independent legal advice, as every situation is different. By listening to this show, you are agreeing that it and the company that runs it are not liable for the outcome of your case.
 
Other Podcast Episodes Mentioned 
Untangling the Value: How to Navigate Valuations in Divorce & De Facto Separation property Settlements
 
Five Proven Steps you can take to finally get that agreement for property settlement or parenting consent orders
 
Your Future Needs and how it affects your divorce and property settlement Part 3: Sorting your property settlement in divorce
 
Sorting your property settlement in divorce: Part 2 Non financial & financial contributions during and after marriage
 
Sorting your property settlement in divorce: Financial Contributions before cohabitation and how it affects your property settlement
 
Useful Resources:
Click here for our free before you leave checklist 
Click here for our free mediation checklist
Sign up here for our next free online webinar
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
Relat

In this episode, you will learn about the recent changes to family law in Australia and how they affect you. Discover the shift from equal shared parental responsibility to joint decision making, as well as the elimination of the presumption of equal shared care. Understand the importance of prioritising children's best interests and the revamped role of independent children's lawyers. Explore simplified consequences for breaching court orders and gain practical advice for adapting to these changes in ongoing legal proceedings. With a positive outlook and a wealth of insights, this episode will give you an overview of what you need to understand in order to navigate the evolving landscape of family law in Australia.
Listen to this episode if you want to:
Stay Informed: Stay updated on recent changes to family law in Australia.
Understanding Amendments: Gain insight into key amendments affecting parental responsibilities and children's welfare.
Legal Implications: Learn about the implications of legislative changes for ongoing family law cases.
Practical Tips: Receive practical tips on how to navigate the new legislation in court proceedings.
Expert Analysis: Benefit from expert analysis and interpretation of complex legal concepts.
Impact on Families: Understand how the amendments may impact families and parental decision-making.
Optimistic Outlook: Hear a positive perspective on the potential benefits of the legislative changes.
Don't Miss Out On These Key Points:
What's Changed in Family Law: Get the lowdown on the latest tweaks to family law in Australia, like the switch from equal shared parental responsibility to joint decision making.
Find out how these changes affect who gets to make the big decisions for the kids and what it means for consulting each other on the important stuff.
Equal Shared Care No More: Hear about the removal of the assumption that parents will share care equally and how that could shake up custody arrangements.
Putting Kids First: Learn how the new approach prioritises what's best for the kids, focusing on their safety and happiness above all.
When Can You Change Things Up?: Understand the rules for going back to court and the steps you need to take to make it happen.
Lawyers for the Little Ones: Discover the expanded role of independent children's lawyers and how they might get to chat with the kids now.
Breaking the Rules: Get the scoop on the simplified consequences for not sticking to court orders and what it means for those who play fast and loose.
Stopping the Legal Drama: Find out about the new order aimed at shutting down the drama queens (and kings) who keep dragging their exes back to court.
Posting About It: Learn what you can and can't share about your case, including a few sneaky ways around the rules.
Time to Get with the Program: Realise why it's essential to address these changes if you're already in the legal process or gearing up to start.
 
For Full Show Notes, go to www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/blog
For more support, visit www.thedivorcecourse.com.au
Please note that this podcast provides general education only and is not legal advice. This is just one lawyer's opinion of the family court's views in Australia. Do not base your case on anything mentioned in this episode unless it is first discussed and approved by your personal lawyer. Always seek independent legal advice, as every situation is different. By listening to this show, you are agreeing that it and the company that runs it are not liable for the outcome of your case.
Other Podcast Episodes Mentioned
Decoding the Best Interests of The Children
 
Useful Resources:
Click here for our free before you leave checklist 
Click here for our free mediation checklist
Sign up here for our next free online webinar
 
Emergency Contacts:
WOMEN'S SHELTER SERVICE 
LEGAL AID
Lifeline 13 11 14
Mensline Australia 1300 789 978
Kids Help Line 1800

Listen to this episode if you or a friend:
Are nervous or unsure how to report domestic violence or coercive control to the police.
Want to understand the process and what happens after you report it.
Need guidance on evidence collection and seeking support.
Are interested in safety planning and available resources.
Seek reassurance and empowerment in navigating the challenging situations involving domestic violence.
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussions of Domestic Violence. If you feel triggered please call 13 11 14 Lifeline and someone is there to listen. Call 1800 Respect if you or someone you know needs support in this area. Call 000 if in immediate danger.
In this episode, we speak with Inspector Dwyer, Manager of State Domestic Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Unit in the Queensland Police. We discuss the step-by-step process of reporting domestic violence and coercive control to the police. Learn what happens inside a police station so you can take those next steps with confidence instead of being afraid of the unknown. Inspector Dwyer provides valuable insights into the steps that people can take, the evidence required, and the support available to them.
Don't Miss Out On These Key Points:
Understanding the Process: Inspector Dwyer outlines the process of reporting domestic violence incidents, emphasising the importance of collecting evidence such as witness statements or medical reports.
Follow-up and Communication: Victims should expect proactive communication from police officers, who are responsible for keeping them informed about the progress of their case.
Dealing with Insufficient Evidence: If you feel your case has been dismissed prematurely, seek advice from a domestic violence coordinator or specialist within the police station.
Coercive Control: Report patterns of coercive behaviour to the police.
Safety Planning: Create a safety plan with the help of domestic violence service providers to mitigate risks associated with reporting abuse.
Interstate Orders: Orders issued in one state are recognized nationally, ensuring protection for victims even if they move or travel to another state.
Training and Awareness: Details on how the Queensland Police Service has invested in extensive training for its officers to recognize and respond effectively to domestic violence situations, including victim-centric, trauma-informed practices.
Empowerment and Hope: Inspector Dwyer underscores the commitment to eradicating domestic violence and offers reassurance that victims survivors have support and resources available to them.
For Full Show Notes, go to www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/blog
For more support, visit www.thedivorcecourse.com.au
Inspector Melissa Dwyer Bio:
Melissa joined the Queensland Police Service in 1991, following her completion of secondary education the year prior.
Initially serving in uniform, Melissa was later appointed to the Redcliffe Criminal Investigation Branch, becoming the first female appointed to the CIB in that District.
She gained extensive experience as a regional Detective, specializing in investigating rape offenses, including those committed within marriage, and leading investigations into domestic and family violence (DFV) homicides.
After 13 years as a regional Detective, Melissa became the Officer in Charge of a Prosecution Corp, serving as the senior prosecutor for DFV and serious and violent crimes.
In 2015, she was promoted to Senior Sergeant in the Strategic Policy Branch, where she played a key role in leading the Queensland Police Service's implementation activities associated with the recommendations of the Not Now: Not Ever Report.
Currently, Melissa serves as the Inspector Manager of the State DFV & Vulnerable Persons Unit, where she was instrumental in implementing the DFV Specialist Courts, earning joint agency Prime Minister's awards and Commissioners Outstanding Awards.
She also develo