Dodging Divorce Disasters

Lori Hawkins, Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert (CDRE)

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. 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
  2. 11/01/2025

    Divorce: Your Story, Your Way with Therapist, Tiffany Chirokas, Founder of Hope Arise, PLLC

    In this conversation, Tiffany Chirokas, a therapist specializing in short-term crisis care, discusses her unique approach to therapy, particularly in the context of divorce and trauma. She emphasizes the importance of seeking help early, understanding that crises can take many forms, and the need for a supportive network. Tiffany also shares insights on how to find the right therapist and the significance of the therapeutic relationship.Takeaways:Tiffany Chirokas has a master's in social work and is a licensed clinical social worker associate.She opened her private practice, Hope Arise, focusing on short-term crisis care.Tiffany aims to equip clients with skills to handle their crises independently.Divorce can be a crisis, but it doesn't have to involve trauma or abuse.It's essential to seek help before situations escalate into crises.Therapists should provide free consultations to ensure a good fit for clients.Crisis can be anything that disrupts daily life, not just traumatic events.A strong support network is crucial for navigating difficult times.Therapists should stay within their expertise and refer clients to other professionals when necessary.Divorce experiences are unique to each individual and should not be compared.Chapters00:00Introduction to Tiffany Tarokas and Her Journey05:42The Unique Approach to Short-Term Crisis Care11:19Understanding Divorce as a Crisis15:56The Importance of Seeking Help Early21:16Finding the Right Therapist for You26:14Embracing Individual Divorce Experiences

    28 min
  3. 11/01/2025

    Navigating Divorce: The Collaborative Approach; Handling Conflict Resolution Outside the Courtroom with Attorney Irene King in North Carolina

    In this episode, Lori Hawkins interviews Irene King, an attorney specializing in collaborative divorce. They discuss the shift from traditional litigation to collaborative processes, the importance of communication, and the benefits of collaborative divorce for families. Irene shares her unique background as a classically trained singer and her passion for helping families navigate divorce in a healthier way. The conversation also addresses common misconceptions about collaborative divorce and the role of attorneys in this process.Takeaways*Irene King transitioned from litigation to collaborative divorce in 2015.*Collaborative divorce allows families to maintain control over their decisions.*The court system often exacerbates conflict rather than resolving it.*Communication is key in collaborative divorce processes.*Irene emphasizes the importance of educating clients about their options.*Collaborative divorce can be a healthier alternative to traditional litigation.*Irene's background in music informs her approach to conflict resolution.*The collaborative process involves a team of professionals to support families.*Misconceptions about trust in collaborative divorce can hinder its adoption.*Irene encourages open-mindedness about the divorce process. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Collaborative Divorce02:58 The Role of a Collaborative Attorney05:31 Understanding the Collaborative Process08:27 Challenges in Collaborative Divorce11:17 The Importance of Communication14:12 A Unique Perspective on Divorce16:49 The Crazy Divorce Story19:26 The Benefits of Collaborative Divorce22:25 Navigating Mistrust in Divorce25:06 The Structure of Collaborative Divorce27:59 Choosing the Right Attorney30:29 Final Thoughts and Resources

    38 min

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.