When Divorce isn't the End: Handling Legal & Post-Separation Abuse

If you’ve ever felt that your ex is using the legal system to keep you trapped or that you’re facing ongoing harassment, this episode provides the support and strategies you need. 

Divorce may mean separation, but sometimes, for those dealing with high-conflict exes, the abuse continues well after the split. In this episode, we discuss five key strategies to manage and escape post-separation abuse purgatory. From court misuse to constant control tactics, this episode offers crucial help for protecting yourself legally, emotionally, and financially. 

Listen to This Episode If You:

• 🌟 Are experiencing legal harassment or ongoing control tactics post-divorce.
• ❓ Want to know how to protect yourself from manipulative use of the court system.
• 💡 Need strategies for setting firm boundaries against a high-conflict ex.
• 🛡 Are navigating the court process with an ex who refuses to cooperate on settlements.
• 📚 Want insights on how recent Family Law changes impact post-separation dynamics.

Key Ideas Discussed in This Episode:

• Understanding Post-Separation Abuse: What it is, how it manifests, and why it’s so pervasive.
• Central Practice Directions: How this court directive aims to reduce misuse of the legal system.
• Section 117C Offers: Leveraging financial penalties to discourage frivolous court actions.
• Legal Documentation: Keeping a record of your ex’s actions and the importance of filing timelines.
• Emotional Boundaries: Techniques to mentally distance yourself from ongoing harassment 

Disclaimer: This podcast episode provides general discussion for Australians and is not a substitute for legal advice in any way at all. Every situation is unique, and it’s important to seek personalised legal advice tailored to your circumstances.

When Divorce isn't the End: Handling Legal & Post-Separation Abuse

Related Episodes that may be helpful:

• Post Separation Abuse Wheel Episode https://youtu.be/YALj5wsoe6k?si=OZp5WhOwyR7Omkyf
• How to divorce a statue https://youtu.be/tM75QvgjM_0?si=9tAnY9EXLu7JjcOS
• Family Court Vs Settling https://youtu.be/gYpW3znoY28?si=NvrUKsGVIlMt8WNC
• When your ex files in court - response to initiating application https://youtu.be/qTHDgWTjF1A?si=rETvrOrpMKf_IwzZ
• Navigating Community Legal Services https://youtu.be/4sEUhu6r07Q?si=Qjla_vk0NAZ2eS_U
• Decoding a word salad letter like a lawyer https://youtu.be/k0AhA3MIjM0?si=onpRY7wU7DTeC63Q

Free Resources & Links:

• CENTRAL PRACTICE DIRECTIONS https://www.fcfcoa.gov.au/fl/pd/fam-cpd
• Section 117c  of the Family Law Act https://classic.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/cth/consol_act/fla1975114/s117c.html
• Free Webinar registration link https://www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/divorcewebinarregistration

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 on managing post-separation abuse. We hope these strategies offer you the tools and confidence to protect yourself and find peace beyond the courtroom. If you found this episode helpful, please rate, review, and subscribe. Every rating helps others find support during difficult transitions. Stay strong and take care.

Disclaimer: This podcast episode provides general discussion for Australians and is not a substitute for legal advice in any way at all. Every situation is unique, and it’s important to seek personalised legal advice tailored to your circumstances.

00:00 Introduction to Post Separation Abuse

00:23 Trigger Warnings and Support Resources

01:06 Podcast Introduction and Goals

01:26 Understanding Post Separation Abuse

03:26 Legal Protections: Central Practice Direction

11:56 Legal Protections: Section 117C

16:40 Taking Legal Action: Going to Court

22:41 New Legal Measures: Harmful Proceedings

23:12 Register Today!

23:22 Understanding Harmful Proceedings

24:20 Court's Role in Handling Harmful Litigants

27:56 Strategies for Dealing with Legal Abuse

33:04 Building Emotional Resilience

37:55 Support and Resources

38:52 Listener Feedback and Conclusion