In this episode, we confront a critical yet often overlooked aspect of domestic violence: coercive control. As a form of abuse that manipulates an individual's freedom and decision-making, coercive control includes behaviors like monitoring spending, isolating victims from social interactions, and controlling personal movements. Originating from Dr. Evan Stark’s work on power dynamics in relationships, this form of abuse has recently gained legal recognition.

We're highlighting how states like California are pioneering efforts to address coercive control in family courts, facing significant challenges and inconsistencies. Despite laws criminalizing coercive control in about ten states, its practical impact on family court decisions is still evolving. We'll discuss California's rebuttable presumption against granting custody to proven abusers and the broader implications of DV in custody battles.

Join us as we shed light on the complexities and shortcomings of the current family court system, advocate for better integration of coercive control legislation, and provide strategies for those affected by domestic violence to navigate these tumultuous legal waters.

📚 Timestamped overview

00:00 Coercive control's impact limited in family courts.

07:06 Coercive control broader than existing abuse categories.

09:57 Ten states criminalize coercive control as abuse.

12:08 Domestic violence impacts custody and visitation decisions.

18:02 Coercive control convictions vary, complicating criminal process.

19:06 Connecticut specifies coercive control; family court varies.

24:20 Application of law differs; judge discretion critical.

27:33 Judges' roles vary; no one-size-fits-all solution.

31:08 October focus: Domestic violence awareness; upcoming topics.

Support the show

Family Court can be traumatic! And trying to handle your case on your own can be even more catastrophic. There are twists & turns at every stage that you need to be aware of and to prepare for. Having a solid Gameplan and someone to help you execute it effectively can make all the difference in the Universe (not just the world.) We know all about the bias, corruption, and dysfunction being handed out by the system. We just want you to have a fighting chance by leveling the playing field.

Need help in handling your Family Court case on your own?

We have services that are specifically geared toward helping self-represented litigants like you understand the common mistakes that lead to the most disappointing outcomes.

To find out more about our services and to stay informed of our FREE workshops by joining our email & visit us at www.TheDivorceSolutionist.com.

This week, in recognition of October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we're dedicating the next few episodes to all the brave survivors of domestic violence. We take a look into the challenges of presenting domestic violence cases in family court and their impact on the overall outcome in custody, visitation, and divorce proceedings. We'll explore why family courts often struggle with addressing abuse allegations, the varying levels of abuse and their implications, and most importantly, how you can strategically present a compelling case even in the face of bias and disbelief.

Stay tuned as we unravel the intricacies of making domestic violence a pivotal element in your family court battle. And don't miss our special offer—a chance for listeners to win a free 30-minute strategy session on domestic violence cases. So sit back, take notes, and let's kick ass in Family Court Abuse cases!

📚 Timestamped overview

00:00 Family court improves, but domestic violence persists.

04:31 Disconnect between DV advocates and mental health experts.

09:17 Abuse allegations might not impact divorce outcomes.

12:09 Emotional abuse often deprioritized in custody cases.

14:47 Understand judge's views and background on DV.

20:30 Present your case creatively; family court varies.

23:55 Find judge rotation: consult a local lawyer.

25:59 Podcast on domestic violence, family court cases.

Support the show

Family Court can be traumatic! And trying to handle your case on your own can be even more catastrophic. There are twists & turns at every stage that you need to be aware of and to prepare for. Having a solid Gameplan and someone to help you execute it effectively can make all the difference in the Universe (not just the world.) We know all about the bias, corruption, and dysfunction being handed out by the system. We just want you to have a fighting chance by leveling the playing field.

Need help in handling your Family Court case on your own?

We have services that are specifically geared toward helping self-represented litigants like you understand the common mistakes that lead to the most disappointing outcomes.

To find out more about our services and to stay informed of our FREE workshops by joining our email & visit us at www.TheDivorceSolutionist.com.

Today we're exploring a crucial topic: how to avoid wasting your life savings on legal fees. We'll discuss strategic approaches to settling disputes independently, performing cost-benefit analyses, and leveraging tools to make informed decisions. We'll also discuss alternative legal resolutions like negotiations and mediation, the importance of knowing your judge, and how to document effectively. By the end of this episode, you'll have practical advice on how to manage your case—whether you're working with an attorney, going pro se, or consulting a strategist like me—all while hanging on to your nest egg. Plus, you'll learn tips on staying organized and prepared, ensuring you don’t spend more than necessary on your legal journey.

Don't take on the “herd mentality” by believing that you must spend tens of thousands on legal fees thinking that you'll increase your chances of getting a specific outcome. It is responsibility to do what you can to ensure that yiur emakong informed decision. And a great starting point is doing your legwork on your own. You can't rely on anyone to make informed decisions for you, that's counterintuitive. Take control of every apect of your case NOW!

📚 Timestamped overview

00:00 You control decisions throughout your case.

04:40 Explore options; overspending leads to ongoing costs.

07:42 Explore limited-scope attorneys for insightful court strategies.

12:16 Proper documentation is crucial for legal success.

16:24 Create a personalized, workable plan for yourself.

17:42 Personalized legal strategy saves clients significant costs.

22:46 Negotiate retainer fees, ask questions, understand costs.

24:25 Inadequate research ruins unique family court cases.

29:30 Court prefers case settlement; mediation encouraged.

30:52 Prepare people for mediation and strategy sessions.

34:38 Good faith attempts to settle earn favor.

Support the show

Family Court can be traumatic! And trying to handle your case on your own can be even more catastrophic. There are twists & turns at every stage that you need to be aware of and to prepare for. Having a solid Gameplan and someone to help you execute it effectively can make all the difference in the Universe (not just the world.) We know all about the bias, corruption, and dysfunction being handed out by the system. We just want you to have a fighting chance by leveling the playing field.

Need help in handling your Family Court case on your own?

We have services that are specifically geared toward helping self-represented litigants like you understand the common mistakes that lead to the most disappointing outcomes.

To find out more about our services and to stay informed of our FREE workshops by joining our email & visit us at www.TheDivorceSolutionist.com.