Separation to Settlement: The Essential Steps from Start to Finish

11/18/24 • 36 min

Facing the journey from separation to settlement can feel overwhelming and uncertain, but you’re not alone. In this episode, Laura and Lynette take you through the seven essential stages of the divorce process, from making the initial decision to separate, all the way to moving forward after your settlement. They share practical tips, emotional insights, and legal education to help you make empowered choices at every step. Whether you're at the beginning of this journey or somewhere in the middle, this episode offers a roadmap to guide you through.

Listen to This Episode If You:

🌟 Are just starting your divorce journey and don’t know what comes next.
❓ Need help understanding the steps from separation to settlement.
💡 Want tips on managing property settlements, parenting plans, and legal agreements.
🛡 Are facing challenges with a high-conflict or manipulative ex.
📚 Want to learn how to move forward emotionally and financially after the settlement is done.

Key Ideas Discussed in This Episode:

Deciding to Separate: Understanding the importance of making the decision and how to document it for legal purposes.
Living Under One Roof: Strategies for managing separation when you’re still sharing a home due to financial or housing constraints.
Understanding Your Legal Rights: Why seeking legal education or advice early is critical to protect yourself.
Property and Financial Settlements: The steps involved in dividing assets, debts, and managing disclosure obligations.
Parenting Plans and Agreements: How to create effective parenting arrangements that prioritise the best interests of your children.
Finalising Legal Documents: What you need to know about consent orders, mediation, and navigating the court system if necessary.
Moving Forward After Divorce: Tips for reclaiming your independence, managing finances, and building a new life.

RESOURCES

Course Enrolment:

Join our Divorce Blueprint Course www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/enrol before the deadline to get personalised guidance, legal education, and emotional support from Laura and Lynette. Platinum spots are limited—sign up now to secure your place.

Emergency Contacts:

LEGAL AID https://www.legalaid.qld.gov.au/
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Kids Help Line: 1800 551 800
Aboriginal Family Domestic Violence Hotline: 1800 019 123
Relationships Australia 1300 364 277
Police: 000
DVConnect Womensline: 1800 811 811 (24 hours, 7 days a week)
DV Connect Mensline: 1800 600 636
National DV line: 1800 737 732 (1800 RESPECT)
Mensline Australia: 1300 789 978

Thank you for tuning in to this episode. We hope it gives you clarity and confidence to take the next steps in your journey. Don’t forget to check out our course for step-by-step guidance and support through every stage of your divorce. If you found this episode helpful, please rate, review, and subscribe. Stay strong, and remember—you’ve got this.

Disclaimer: This podcast episode provides general legal education for Australians and is not a substitute for legal advice. Every situation is unique, and it’s important to seek independent legal advice tailored to your circumstances.

00:00 Introduction to the 7 Steps from Separation to Settlement

01:34 How to Make the Decision to Separate

03:36 Can you Be Separated Under One Roof in Divorce

06:51 How to find out Your Legal Rights and Obligations in Divorce

10:46 How to Divide Assets, Property, and Debt in Divorce

14:44 How to Create Parenting Plans and Arrangements

19:24 How to Navigate Legal Paperwork and Mediation in Divorce

20:57 How to learn about Divorce Applications and Time Limits

22:35 How to avoid the Emotional Rollercoaster of Divorce

23:48 How to get Empowerment Through Knowledge and Support in Divorce

27:28 How to Move Forward After Divorce

33:29 How to Join Our Supportive Divorce Community

Listen to This Episode If You:

🌟 Are just starting your divorce journey and don’t know what comes next.
❓ Need help understanding the steps from separation to settlement.
💡 Want tips on managing property settlements, parenting plans, and legal agreements.
🛡 Are facing challenges with a high-conflict or manipulative ex.
📚 Want to learn how to move forward emotionally and financially after the settlement is done.

Key Ideas Discussed in This Episode:

Deciding to Separate: Understanding the importance of making the decision and how to document it for legal purposes.
Living Under One Roof: Strategies for managing separation when you’re still sharing a home due to financial or housing constraints.
Understanding Your Legal Rights: Why seeking legal education or advice early is critical to protect yourself.
Property and Financial Settlements: The steps involved in dividing assets, debts, and managing disclosure obligations.
Parenting Plans and Agreements: How to create effective parenting arrangements that prioritise the best interests of your children.
Finalising Legal Documents: What you need to know about consent orders, mediation, and navigating the court system if necessary.
Moving Forward After Divorce: Tips for reclaiming your independence, managing finances, and building a new life.

RESOURCES

Course Enrolment:

Join our Divorce Blueprint Course www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/enrol before the deadline to get personalised guidance, legal education, and emotional support from Laura and Lynette. Platinum spots are limited—sign up now to secure your place.

Emergency Contacts:

LEGAL AID https://www.legalaid.qld.gov.au/
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Kids Help Line: 1800 551 800
Aboriginal Family Domestic Violence Hotline: 1800 019 123
Relationships Australia 1300 364 277
Police: 000
DVConnect Womensline: 1800 811 811 (24 hours, 7 days a week)
DV Connect Mensline: 1800 600 636
National DV line: 1800 737 732 (1800 RESPECT)
Mensline Australia: 1300 789 978

00:00 Introduction to the 7 Steps from Separation to Settlement

01:34 How to Make the Decision to Separate

03:36 Can you Be Separated Under One Roof in Divorce

06:51 How to find out Your Legal Rights and Obligations in Divorce

10:46 How to Divide Assets, Property, and Debt in Divorce

14:44 How to Create Parenting Plans and Arrangements

19:24 How to Navigate Legal Paperwork and Mediation in Divorce

20:57 How to learn about Divorce Applications and Time Limits

22:35 How to avoid the Emotional Rollercoaster of Divorce

23:48 How to get Empowerment Through Knowledge and Support in Divorce

27:28 How to Move Forward After Divorce

33:29 How to Join Our Supportive Divorce Community

Previous Episode

Three Things I Wish I Knew Before Divorce + Free Webinar Invite

BONUS mini episode: Divorce is a challenging journey, and there are so many things we wish we’d known before starting out. In this special episode, I share three key insights I learned along the way—insights that could save you time, stress, and money. From setting firm boundaries to creating a clear plan and building a strong support system, these lessons are invaluable for anyone facing separation or divorce.

And there’s more! Next week, we’re hosting a free, live webinar designed to support you wherever you are in your divorce journey. This session will cover everything from practical advice on setting boundaries and protecting your finances to tips for handling high-conflict communication. Join us for actionable insights and a live Q&A session with my mum, a family law expert. Webinar registration link https://www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/divorcewebinarregistration

Listen to This Episode If You:

🌟 Are beginning your divorce journey and need a roadmap to help guide your decisions.
❓ Want to hear practical, first-hand tips from someone who’s been through it.
💡 Need insights on handling emotional and financial boundaries during divorce.
🛡 Are curious about what our free webinar will cover and how it can help you.
📚 Want to learn how to build a strong support system to get through challenging times.

Key Ideas Discussed in This Episode:

Setting Firm Boundaries: The importance of defining clear emotional and practical boundaries.
Creating a Plan: How having a roadmap can help you feel more in control and prepared.
Building a Support System: Why having friends, family, or a professional by your side is invaluable.
DIVORCE Webinar Details: What to expect from our upcoming live webinar, including actionable insights and a live Q&A with a family law specialist.

Webinar Highlights:

Topics Covered: Boundaries, financial protection, handling high-conflict communication, and more.
Live Q&A: Ask your specific questions and receive advice from a family law expert.
Privacy Guaranteed: Participate as much or as little as you like in a safe, confidential space.
Limited Spots: Click the link in our show notes or visit thedivorcecourse.com.au to save your seat!

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: 000
DVConnect Womensline: 1800 811 811 (24 hours, 7 days a week)
DV Connect Mensline: 1800 600 636
National DV line: 1800 737 732 (1800 RESPECT)

Thank you for tuning in to this episode! We hope these insights make your journey a little easier and empower you to take control of the process. And remember, don’t miss out on our final free webinar of the year next week—it’s an incredible opportunity to learn, ask questions, and find support. See you there!

00:00 Introduction and Setting Expectations

00:03 Three Things I Wish I Knew Before Divorce

00:17 Importance of Setting Boundaries with your ex

00:31 Having a Plan when going through the divorce process

00:52 Power of a Support System when facing divorce

01:08 Exciting Divorce Webinar Announcement

01:15 Webinar Details and Benefits

02:05 Addressing Concerns and Privacy

03:07 Final Thoughts and How to Register

Next Episode

Mediation or Manipulation: How to Handle Divorce Mediation When Settlement Isn’t their Goal

Mediation is meant to be a pathway to resolution, but what happens when one party has no intention of settling? In this episode we explore the troubles and solutions of mediation, offering practical tips on how to navigate manipulative tactics and protect your mental health.

Whether it’s property or parenting arrangements, this is an informative guide on what you can potentially expect before, during, and after mediation to stay one step ahead.

If you’ve ever worried about being stuck in a mediation that feels like a game rather than a genuine effort to resolve issues, this episode is for you.

Disclaimer: This podcast episode provides general legal education for Australians and is not a substitute for legal advice. Every situation is unique, so seek personalised legal advice tailored to your circumstances.

Listen to This Episode If You:

🌟 Want to prepare for an upcoming mediation session.

❓ Are unsure how to handle a manipulative ex during mediation.

💡 Need strategies to make mediation as productive as possible.

🛡 Are concerned about wasting time and money in mediation.

📚 Want tips to protect your legal and emotional boundaries.

Key Ideas Discussed in This Episode:

The Purpose of Mediation:

Understanding its role in the divorce process and when it works best.

Manipulative Tactics to Watch For:

Recognising red flags during mediation. Preparation Tips: How to gather evidence and set boundaries before mediation.

Strategies During Mediation:

Getting small wins, staying focused, and not falling into traps.

Post-Mediation Steps:

Following up with offers and using mediation outcomes in court, even if no agreement is reached.

Common Pitfalls:

“Don’t be surprised if” scenarios, including last-minute walkouts and wild demands.

Emotional Management:

How to stay calm and avoid frustration when things don’t go as planned.

Links & Resources Mentioned:

Course Enrolment: Join our Divorce Blueprint Course www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/enrol before the deadline to get personalised guidance, legal education, and emotional support from Laura and Lynette. Platinum spots are limited—sign up now to secure your place.

4VOICES

https://www.4voices.org.au/

Christmas Appeal

https://4voiceschristmasappeal.raiselysite.com/

Episodes Mentioned in this

8 Ways to Protect yourself from DARVO and your Narcissistic Ex during Family Court https://youtu.be/pRMOfozwBKs?si=tDmJwHO3ch-uYhTg

Mediation and negotiation tips for divorcing an ex with narcissistic behaviors / Ep. 99 https://youtu.be/JYqqDyWa5ns?si=k7G6OfpMwPP1Hqgg

Costs, Family Court and Calderbank Offers / Ep. 65 https://youtu.be/0OKhDB8s3As?si=54omWq46LHn_Eb6R

Do I really need a lawyer for divorce mediation or family dispute resolution? https://youtu.be/GB2lJftxdh4?si=BgdkYJrQTeokTlSK

Master Your Divorce Negotiations: The Iron Fist Within the Velvet Glove Technique / Ep. 109 https://youtu.be/JSYc-yun-jM?si=VCefzLZb-ie-f1m9

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: 000 DVConnect Womensline: 1800 811 811 DV Connect Mensline: 1800 600 636 National DV line: 1800 737 732 (1800 RESPECT)

Thank you for tuning in to this episode. We hope these strategies empower you to handle mediation with confidence and clarity. If you found this episode helpful, please rate, review, and subscribe. Every share helps others find support during difficult times. Stay strong—you’ve got this.

Disclaimer: This podcast episode provides general legal education for Australians and is not a substitute for legal advice. Every situation is unique, so seek personalized legal advice tailored to your circumstances.

00:00 Introduction and Overview

01:06 The Importance of Mediation in Divorce

02:23 Recognising Manipulative Tactics during divorce

03:53 Pre-Mediation Strategies for mediating with a narcissist or manipulative type

06:23 During Mediation: What to Expect

10:08 What can you do Post-Mediation

20:23 Making the Most of a Failed Mediation

25:41 What about Unrealistic Demands in Mediation

26:34 Preparing for Mediation Roadblocks

28:51 Handling Unexpected Settlement Outcomes<...