Dodging Divorce Disasters

Lori Hawkins, Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert (CDRE)
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Divorce requires you to make so many decisions-Legal, Emotional, Financial. How great would it be to hear advice, from experts in the field of divorce, that would help you dodge a few divorce disasters! Make your life a little easier in the midst of confusion. And that's where this podcast comes into play. I interview experts from within the world of divorce to explain their client's craziest divorce story and then advise you on how NOT to make that same mistake. You'll hear from attorneys, CDFA's, therapists, coaches, PI's, CDRE's. Any expert you may need to get you across the finish line.

  1. MAR 25

    Divorce Attorneys & Rates: Discussing Innovative Fee Structures with Atty. Leigh Anne Williams

    SummaryIn this conversation, Lori Hawkins interviews family law attorney Lee Anne Williams, who shares her journey in family law, the importance of emotional support during divorce, and practical advice for navigating legal challenges. They discuss the significance of choosing the right attorney, the pitfalls of aggressive legal strategies, and innovative fee structures that prioritize client needs. Lee Ann emphasizes the importance of empathy in legal practice and the need for accessible legal representation for all clients.TakeawaysHaving friends who knew you before your marriage is crucial during divorce.Emotional support is key for individuals going through separation.Choosing the right attorney can significantly impact the divorce process.Aggressive legal strategies often lead to higher costs without better outcomes.Understanding the law helps clients navigate their cases more effectively.Communication through text can help manage custody issues.Therapy can be a more cost-effective solution than legal advice for emotional issues.Recognizing narcissistic traits can help in understanding relationship dynamics.Legal representation should be accessible to everyone, regardless of financial status.Innovative fee structures can alleviate financial stress for clients.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Family Law and Personal Journey03:11 The Importance of Support Systems During Divorce05:46 Empathy in Family Law: A Personal Touch08:39 Navigating Parental Relationships and Divorce11:37 Practical Advice for Avoiding Divorce Pitfalls14:11 Choosing the Right Attorney: Bulldog vs. Supportive17:00 Managing Legal Fees and Emotional Support18:15 Understanding Narcissism in Relationships20:21 The Court System and Abuse Dynamics22:56 Choosing the Right Attorney28:13 Innovative Legal Fee Structures32:01 The Mission of Accessible Legal Representation33:53 Leigh Anne Williams DDD Outro with LH.mp4

    34 min

  2. MAR 22

    Smart Divorce Money Decisions: For Women Only; Divorce Finance Strategies with Kelley Hughes, CDFA®

    Divorce Finance Strategies with Kelley Hughes: Navigating Financial and Emotional ComplexitiesIn this episode, Kelley Hughes, a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA), shares invaluable insights on how women can financially prepare for and navigate divorce. We explore common pitfalls, the importance of proper financial planning, and the unique challenges faced by those in gray divorces.Key Topics:The critical role of a CDFA in divorce proceedings, especially for womenThe significance of understanding assets, liabilities, and future income projectionsHow emotional decision-making can negatively impact divorce settlement outcomesThe importance of early financial organization and gathering documentationThe unique challenges of gray divorces for individuals over 50Practical advice on avoiding divorce disasters such as staying in high-cost school districts or emotional asset fightsThe value of planning for post-divorce stability over the long termHow to effectively communicate and collaborate with attorneys, CPAs, and mortgage professionalsThe growing prevalence of gray divorces and their implications on retirement planningTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Kelley Hughes and her work as a CDFA00:40 - The importance of financial guidance during divorce01:29 - Why divorce is mainly about asset division and finances02:02 - Common misconceptions about divorce and family law02:38 - How future income, liquidity needs, and refinancing factor into negotiations03:00 - Emotional vs. financial priorities during divorce03:39 - The importance of having a neutral financial advocate04:34 - Kelley shares her personal experience with divorce and financial planning05:58 - Collaborating effectively with attorneys—preparing documentation and timelines06:38 - The financial pitfalls of relying solely on attorneys’ guidance08:03 - How a CDFA can improve settlement outcomes and reduce legal costs10:25 - The specifics of gray divorces and their long-term financial implications11:47 - Planning for your needs decades after the divorce12:46 - The rise of gray divorces and their impact on retirement13:00 - Kelley’s love for live music and its community aspect15:39 - Geographic scope of Kelley’s services—North and South Carolina, virtually elsewhere15:55 - Dodging divorce disasters: real-life examples and lessons learned17:50 - How emotional attachments to heirlooms or furniture can cause costly mistakes18:59 - The importance of focusing on retirement account distribution20:22 - Recognizing when emotional decisions lead to poor financial choices22:15 - The significance of having a financial advocate during prolonged divorce processes24:42 - How poor settlement planning can prolong legal and emotional stress25:55 - Contact and consulting information for Kelley Hughes27:14 - The necessity of consulting CPAs and mortgage professionals before finalizing agreements27:47 - Final thoughts and gratitudeResources & Links:Smart Divorce Decisions - Kelley Hughes’ consulting practiceCertified Divorce Lending Professional (CDLP) for specialized divorce lending professionalsBooks on divorce and financial planning (search on Amazon for relevant titles)Connect with Kelley Hughes:LinkedInFacebookInstagramNote: Kelley emphasizes the importance of early communication with CPAs and mortgage brokers to prevent costly post-divorce surprises. Whether you’re navigating a high-stakes gray divorce or a more typical settlement, these tips will help ensure a financially stable future.

    29 min

  3. MAR 15

    Navigating High Conflict Divorces with a Divorce Coach Specialist & Mediator, Tina Huggins

    Introduction: Divorce can be a tumultuous journey, especially when high conflict is involved. In a recent podcast episode of "Dodging Divorce Disasters," host Lori Hawkins speaks with Tina Huggins, a high conflict divorce specialist and mediator. Tina shares her unique insights and experiences, particularly focusing on the challenges men face during divorce. Main Content: 1. Understanding High Conflict Divorce High conflict divorce cases present unique challenges that often prolong the process and increase stress for all parties involved. Tina Huggins emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs of high conflict early on. This recognition can make a significant difference in how one approaches the divorce process. 2. The Importance of Support Tina highlights the lack of support systems available for men during divorce. Drawing from personal experience, she explains how her father's traumatic relationship shaped her focus on helping men navigate their own high conflict divorces. Many men feel isolated and overwhelmed, making the role of a divorce coach crucial in providing the necessary guidance and support. 3. Case Studies and Real-Life Examples One of the most striking stories shared by Tina involves a client who spent seven years and over $300,000 on a divorce that could have been resolved much quicker with the right support. The client initially dismissed the idea of hiring a divorce coach, believing he could handle the situation alone. However, as the divorce progressed, he faced numerous obstacles due to his spouse's manipulative behavior. With Tina's help, they were able to streamline the process, ultimately concluding the divorce in nine months. 4. What a Divorce Coach Offers Tina explains how divorce coaches can help de-escalate conflicts and provide emotional support. By organizing information and preparing clients for mediation, a divorce coach can save significant time and money. They offer a sense of stability in an otherwise chaotic situation, helping clients make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes. Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome and introduction to Tina Huggins, high conflict divorce expert00:12 - Tina's transition from law enforcement and personal trauma informing her work01:13 - The importance of support for men during divorce02:09 - Tina’s background in law enforcement, martial arts, and crisis intervention02:44 - How Tina’s experiences help her in high conflict divorce cases03:28 - Fun fact: Rappelling from a Huey helicopter with a senator04:39 - The training behind rapid rescue operations in Colorado’s mountains05:53 - Tina’s insights into early intervention and setting legal exit strategies07:35 - A high-conflict divorce horror story: The seven-year, $300K bill case10:25 - Strategies Tina used to cut costs and resolve the divorce faster11:56 - Financial chaos and asset shuffling in contentious divorces13:45 - How Tina’s approach deescalates conflict and prevents costly mistakes15:06 - The necessity of a team: attorneys, realtors, financial planners, and divorce coaches16:45 - Clarifying the role and value of a divorce coach17:10 - The benefits of early coaching for conflict prevention and preparation18:29 - How coaching reduces emotional and financial costs19:02 - Different divorce legal processes Tina guides clients through20:37 - The importance of expert involvement in mediation and arbitration22:17 - Using professional support for rental property disputes and asset protection23:41 - The role of real estate professionals in divorce cases and Second Saturday workshops25:07 - Cost savings and the significance of early coaching in high conflict situations26:48 - How Tina’s company, Your Divorce Coach Specialist, supports clients globally27:04 - Contact information and service areas28:19 - Final thoughts on the critical need for divorce professionals and team collaboration

    29 min

  4. MAR 4

    Empowering Women Financially: 5 Key Financial Strategies for Women Going Through Divorce

    SummaryIn this episode, Sabrina Alton from Insight Financial Coaching shares valuable insights on managing finances during divorce, the importance of a financial team, and practical tips for women navigating financial challenges. Discover how to avoid common pitfalls and empower yourself with financial knowledge.Key Topics🎤 Importance of a financial team in divorce🎤 Common financial pitfalls in divorce🎤 Steps to understand and organize your finances🎤 Role of financial coaches and CDFAs in divorce🎤 Behavioral habits affecting financial healthSound Bites"Small payments add up to big money""Shame is a barrier to financial progress""Getting control of your finances is freeing"Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction01:23 Insight into Sabrina's Financial Coaching Business02:38 Common Financial Mistakes During Divorce03:09 Case Study: Managing Family Home Costs04:00 Divorce Decree and Hidden Costs04:59 The Importance of a Divorce Financial Team06:28 Role of Financial Coaches and Planners08:14 Understanding Asset Growth and Tax Implications08:41 Difference Between Financial Coach and CDFA10:03 Early Financial Planning and Its Benefits11:14 Modeling Financial Projections for Divorce13:37 Tracking Daily Expenses and Behavioral Habits15:06 Addressing Emotional Spending and Habits17:20 How to Contact Sabrina for Financial Coaching18:50 The Power of Financial Control and Freedom20:14 Creating a Safe Space for Financial Discussions22:15 The Impact of Travel and Life Experiences23:28 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts

    25 min

  5. MAR 1

    A Father-Focused Divorce with Jana Jones, Family Law Attorney in Charlotte, NC

    SummaryThis conversation delves into the complexities of divorce, emphasizing the importance of obtaining accurate information and legal advice. It covers the emotional and financial impacts of divorce, the rights and responsibilities individuals have during the process, and how to navigate life after divorce. The discussion highlights the necessity of consultations to understand one's entitlements and the potential pitfalls of proceeding without professional guidance.Takeaways🎤 The most important thing anybody potentially going through divorce can do is to get information.🎤 Doing a consultation is crucial, even for seemingly simple situations.🎤 You don't know what you don't know, so seek advice.🎤 Understanding your entitlements and exposure is vital before taking action.🎤 Navigating the divorce process can be complex and requires careful consideration.🎤 Emotional impacts during divorce can be profound and should not be overlooked.🎤 Financial considerations are crucial in the divorce process.🎤 Knowing your legal rights and responsibilities is essential for a fair outcome.🎤 Life after divorce can be a new beginning, and planning is key.🎤 Consulting a professional can save you time and stress during the divorce process.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction and guest overview: Jana Jones' background in family law 00:45 - Jana’s childhood dream: Food critic and travel lover 01:28 - How childhood influences her choice to become a lawyer 02:07 - Her diverse career: Real estate and guardianship work 02:46 - Why Jana specializes in family law in Mecklenburg County 04:05 - Jana’s favorite foods and her unbiased approach to steak quality 04:55 - The significance of seeking legal advice before divorce 06:36 - Pitfalls of self-representation and importance of consultations 07:57 - How unfavorable facts in a case can impact outcomes 09:36 - A challenging divorce story involving betrayal and unexpected circumstances 10:45 - Why legal consultations are crucial even in seemingly amicable cases 11:07 - The limits of representation and the importance of documentation 12:23 - Differences between separation agreements and filing lawsuits 13:57 - Stories of clients self-negotiating and understanding their agreements 14:31 - The importance of understanding potential legal exposures 15:31 - Focus on father-focused custody and balancing parental roles 16:21 - How Mecklenburg judges oversee custody cases fairly 17:29 - Addressing misconceptions about moms and dads in custody decisions 18:37 - The evolving dynamics of household roles and involvement of fathers 20:26 - Jana's advice: Get a consultation, especially if considering self-representation 21:11 - The value of multiple consultations and building understanding 22:16 - Why family law requires experience, not just intelligence 23:16 - Contact info for Jana Jones and how to get in touch

    47 min

  6. FEB 25

    A New Way to Divorce with Allison Terrill, Co-Founder of Phoenix Financial Advocates & Solagree

    Summary In this conversation, Allison Terrill discusses her commitment to helping others after overcoming personal challenges, particularly in the realm of finances. She emphasizes the importance of community support and the rewarding nature of assisting those facing financial fears. An introduction to Solagree....A NEW WAY TO DIVORCE. Takeaways 🎤 I promised God if He brought me through it, I was not going to stop helping. 🎤 There is such a need because there's so much that you can't control, but there's so much that you can. 🎤 It really is rewarding to be able to help people with this very messy scary, big scary of the finances. 🎤 Helping others can be a powerful motivator for personal growth. 🎤 Facing financial fears is a common struggle for many individuals. 🎤 Community support plays a crucial role in overcoming financial challenges. 🎤 Personal commitment can lead to significant positive change in others' lives. 🎤 Understanding what you can control is key to managing fears. 🎤 The journey of helping others can be fulfilling and transformative. 🎤 Sharing personal experiences can inspire others to seek help.

    30 min

  7. FEB 13

    From Fear to Empowerment: Strategies Every Woman Needs to Navigate Divorce Successfully

    SummaryIn this conversation, Donna S Cates and Lori Hawkins discuss the complexities of navigating divorce, particularly the role of divorce attorneys and the importance of understanding financial implications before making decisions. They emphasize the need for thorough financial analysis and careful consideration of options before proceeding with litigation.Takeaways🎤 The divorce attorney might not always be the first best step.🎤 The attorney's not gonna tell you what to do up front, but when you meet with that attorney, now you're just thinking litigation.🎤 We don't know what's going to be the best outcome for you until we do the number crunching.🎤 What's going to make the most sense?🎤 Can I afford to get them?🎤 Do I have a credit score that's worthy of it?🎤 Do I have the income to support it?🎤 Do I have the cash flow to pay the mortgage?🎤 All of this is work that you're doing before anybody decides on anything.Chapters00:00 Understanding the Role of Divorce Attorneys00:24 Financial Considerations in Divorce

    32 min

  8. FEB 6

    How Domestic Violence Orders (DVO's) Can Evict You - and Change Your Divorce Forever

    Understanding Domestic Violence Protective Orders: Insights from an Attorney and Former JudgeIn this episode, attorney and former Mecklenburg County Judge Paulina Havelka shares vital information about domestic violence protective orders, their legal and practical implications, and how individuals can protect their rights during such proceedings. Whether you're facing a protective order or just want to understand the system better, this episode provides essential guidance. Key topics Unlocked: 🔐 The difference between protective orders and restraining orders, including chapters 50B and 50C 🔐 How protective orders are initiated and the process for self-filing 🔐 Timeline for service and eviction from the residence after an order is granted 🔐 The importance of understanding possession vs. ownership of property during protective orders 🔐 Criminal consequences of violating protective orders 🔐 Grounds for filing a domestic violence protective order (physical harm, harassment, sexual assault) 🔐 Common misconceptions and potential abuses of the protective process 🔐 The impact of protective orders on divorce, property division, and child custody 🔐 Why legal counsel is crucial even if you choose to file on your own 🔐 Tips for responding appropriately and avoiding escalation during disputes involving protective orders Timeline: 00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest's background 00:53 - What is a domestic violence protective order? 1:06 - The judge's role and process overview 2:05 - Duration and changes when a judge is involved 4:06 - The speed of protective orders in the system 4:54 - Impact on property rights and responsibilities 6:24 - The significance of possession versus ownership 7:04 - Criminal penalties for violating protective orders 8:01 - Long-term effects on divorce and property division 9:25 - Temporary vs. final property and support issues 10:37 - Who can be served and the eviction process 11:25 - How possession of the home is determined 12:51 - Mortgage responsibility during protective orders 15:01 - Legal procedures for filing protective orders—DIY options 17:27 - Grounds for obtaining a protective order (bodily injury, harassment) 18:24 - Proving harassment and verbal/emotional abuse 19:23 - Difference between restraining orders and protective orders 20:10 - Legal chapters related to domestic violence (50B vs. 50C) 21:37 - Risks of falsely accusing someone to remove them from the home 24:24 - System abuse and false accusations 25:32 - Immediate steps when served with a protective order 26:12 - Rights of victims and those wrongly accused 27:01 - The importance of self-control and legal advice 28:15 - The value of legal consultation and avoiding mistakes 29:17 - The system’s complexity and the importance of qualified help 30:11 - How judges perceive legal advice and self-representation 31:08 - Preventing divorce disasters with expert guidance 32:12 - The art of managing contentious situations 33:06 - Contact information for Paulina Havelka 34:08 - Her approach to collaborative law versus litigation 35:16 - Final thoughts on legal representation and protecting children Resources & Links: Collins Family Law & Elder Group Paulina Havelka - NC General Statutes Chapter 50B - Domestic Violence Protective Orders NC General Statutes Chapter 50C - No Contact Orders Connect with Paulina Havelka: Website: www.collinsfamilylaw.com 704-275-2942 Note: Always consult a qualified attorney for your specific case to understand your rights and options.

    40 min
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About

Divorce requires you to make so many decisions-Legal, Emotional, Financial. How great would it be to hear advice, from experts in the field of divorce, that would help you dodge a few divorce disasters! Make your life a little easier in the midst of confusion. And that's where this podcast comes into play. I interview experts from within the world of divorce to explain their client's craziest divorce story and then advise you on how NOT to make that same mistake. You'll hear from attorneys, CDFA's, therapists, coaches, PI's, CDRE's. Any expert you may need to get you across the finish line.

Information

  • Creator
    Lori Hawkins, Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert (CDRE)
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    22
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Lori Hawkins, Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert (CDRE)
  • Show Website
    Dodging Divorce Disasters

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