When betrayal leaves you questioning the future of your relationship, the thought of separation can bring a whole new layer of fear and uncertainty.
Where would I live? What would happen with the children? Do I need a lawyer? And does speaking to one mean I’ve decided to leave?
In this episode of Confident Again, Jane speaks with Sian Green from Horizons Family Law about what women need to know when separation is a possibility — even if they are nowhere near ready to make a decision.
Sian brings warmth, clarity and years of experience supporting people through family separation. Together, Jane and Sian unpack how getting good legal information can reduce uncertainty and help you understand your options without locking you into a particular path.
They talk about:
- Why you can speak with a family lawyer before you have decided whether to separate
- How confidential legal advice can help untangle some of the overwhelm
- Common fears women have about separation, finances and their children
- How Australian family law approaches the best interests and safety of children
- The importance of the safety of both children and their caregivers
- How a child’s voice and individual needs can be considered
- The difference between mediation, agreement and court processes
- Ways mediation can be adapted where there are family violence concerns or power imbalances
- Why documenting your experiences clearly and chronologically can be helpful
- The importance of describing not only what happened, but its impact on you
- Why focusing on being the parent you want to be matters
- The value of building a team of personal, professional and community support
- Free and low-cost services available to women navigating separation
- Why there can still be hope for you and your children on the other side of crisis
Perhaps one of the most important reminders in this conversation is that you do not have to make every decision today.
Sometimes the next courageous step is simply gathering good information.
About Sian Green
Sian Green is a family lawyer with Horizons Family Law, a not-for-profit family law service providing legal assistance to people navigating separation and family law matters.
Horizons offers free telephone legal advice as well as face-to-face clinics in several Sydney locations. Their telephone service can also assist people outside New South Wales in most Australian states and territories.
Find out more:
horizonsfamilylaw.org.au
Other resources mentioned
1800RESPECT
National domestic, family and sexual violence counselling, information and support service.
Family Relationship Centres
Family relationship support, counselling, referrals and Family Dispute Resolution services are available through organisations such as Relationships Australia, Anglicare, CatholicCare, BaptistCare and Uniting Care.
A gentle reminder
If today's conversation raised questions for you, you don't need to resolve them all at once. Good information can help you feel less afraid and more able to consider what is right for you and your family.
Until next time, go gently with your beautiful self.
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Disclaimer: The content shared on Confident Again is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical, psychological, therapeutic, legal or other professional advice, diagnosis or treatment, and should not be used as a substitute for individualised support from an appropriately qualified professional.
The experiences, perspectives and opinions shared by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Jane Gibb or Quiet Wisdom. Every person and situation is different, and listeners are encouraged to seek professional support appropriate to their own circumstances.
If you are experiencing significant distress, trauma symptoms, concerns about safety, or compulsive or addictive sexual behaviour, please seek support from a suitably qualified health or mental health professional.
