Have you ever considered the silent battles children face in the shadow of high-conflict marriage and divorce? We're joined by esteemed New York family lawyer Dennis Vetrano as we explore the deep, often unseen impact of domestic disharmony on the youngest members of the family. In a candid conversation, we peel back the layers of the psychological effects that parental discord can have on children, stressing their emotional health as a paramount concern in high-conflict divorce.

The complexities of a child's world magnify when caught between acrimonious relationships, and in this episode, we don't shy away from the tough discussions. We delve into the importance of recognizing behavioral changes in children and the significant role that professionals, such as counselors and teachers, play in safeguarding their mental health. Dennis brings to light the challenges within the judicial system to address parental alienation and the need for careful documentation when it comes to the well-being of our kids. His insights give a fresh perspective on the intricate dance of advocating for a child's voice in court.

We discuss the resilience required to co-parent with a toxic ex-partner and the strategies one can employ to ensure a child’s voice is not lost amidst legal tumult. This episode isn't just about the trials of family law; it's an affirmation of the strength found in professional support and the unwavering commitment to the emotional welfare of children. Join us for this heartfelt reflection on the power of advocacy and the unyielding spirit needed to navigate the complexities of divorce and co-parenting.

When Texas State Representative Lacey Hull stepped out of the voting booth and into the halls of influence, she brought with her a fierce resolve to tackle domestic violence in a way the Lone Star State has never seen. In this episode, Lisa talks with Lacey - a mother turned political force - about the introduction of coercive control legislation in Texas. Our conversation delves into the importance of broadening the understanding of domestic violence beyond physical abuse and capturing the essence of coercive control - a destructive force that erodes personal freedom and independence. Lacey shares insights on the bipartisan backing she foresees for this transformative bill and the vital roundtable discussions that have helped set the stage for legislative action. 

The episode is a powerful testament to the strength of survivor stories and the influential role they play in the fight for justice. Inspired by Connecticut's Jennifer's Law and the UK's legal precedents, we explore the educational 'wave' that's enlightening the nation on the critical need to recognize and criminalize coercive control. This movement's momentum is palpable, as is the commitment of individuals and organizations rallying for change. For Texans eager to support this legislative push, this episode not only offers a glimpse into the transformative work being done but also serves as a call to action to join forces, share experiences, and ignite a dialogue that resonates through every level of society, championing a future where justice for survivors is not only hoped for but realized.

Unlock the truths behind safety and domestic violence as we sit down with Steve Dana, founder and CEO of Protection from Abuse, who brings his invaluable expertise to the table. We dissect the alarming trend of victims underestimating their risk and delve into the life-saving significance of risk assessments that can recalibrate victims' understanding of their own perilous situations. Our conversation journeys through the viral dialogue sparked by an open letter to Kanye West, highlighting how the glare of the public eye can illuminate the hidden abusive dynamics that pervade our society.

Navigating the complexities of domestic violence within the legal sphere presents its own set of challenges, a theme we explore thoroughly with insights from my own experiences in risk management and security. The discussion spotlights the critical need for empathy and specialized knowledge among legal professionals, while also uncovering the practicalities and pitfalls of safety planning. Listen closely as we reflect on the intersection between law and personal safeguarding, shedding light on common misconceptions and the tailored strategies that could mean the difference between danger and safety for those in high-risk situations.

As we conclude our eye-opening conversation, we underscore the importance of distinguishing between law enforcement and security expertise, emphasizing the specialized training that security professionals undergo. The episode culminates with a powerful message on the impact of early education about healthy relationships, sharing personal anecdotes that demonstrate the profound influence such lessons can have. Our heartfelt appreciation for the collaborative spirit and depth of our discussion is palpable, leaving listeners with a sense of urgency to further engage with and educate themselves on the issue of domestic violence.

Have you ever wondered what invisible chains keep someone tethered to an abusive partner, despite the dangers? Our conversation with Dennis Vetrano, a NY divorce lawyer with twenty years in family law, offers a profound look behind the curtain of these harrowing situations. Dennis navigates the complexities of cultural and societal pressures that often confine victims to harmful marriages, shedding light on the pivotal role that domestic violence training—or the alarming lack thereof—plays for legal advocates today.

Supporting a loved one through the storm of an abusive relationship is a delicate dance, often riddled with frustration and fear. This episode explores the intertwined emotions and challenges faced by friends, family, and even legal professionals who strive to maintain a lifeline to those caught in the web of manipulation. Dennis shares his expertise on the intricacies of providing empathy while also conveying the harsh realities that plague victims, and the nuanced understanding required to effectively guide them through the legal system.

As we wrap up our poignant exchange, we delve into the thorny path of co-parenting with a toxic ex. It's a battleground where strategies like "gray-rocking" and parallel parenting become shields to protect both the children's and one’s own well-being. Our seasoned expert emphasizes the importance of firm boundaries and professional support to navigate these turbulent waters. As our discussion comes to a close, we reflect on the significance of accessible legal communication, fostering a partnership built on respect, and the common goal of easing the journey for those facing these difficult circumstances.

Are the battle lines of divorce really set in stone? Micki McWade, a collaborative divorce professional and social worker, joins us to shatter this myth, revealing a world where collaboration triumphs over confrontation. With a wealth of experience spanning two decades, she shares the intricacies of the collaborative divorce process, a strategy that brings together lawyers, mental health experts, and financial advisors to champion a cooperative approach. This episode strips back the complexities of emotionally charged negotiations, especially when faced with high-conflict personalities or those exhibiting narcissistic traits. Micki's wisdom sheds light on the art of effective divorce management, ensuring minimized emotional and financial strain for all parties involved.

Navigating the stormy seas of divorce demands more than just legal expertise; it requires a steady hand and a compassionate heart. Here, the role of mental health professionals is put under the microscope, showcasing their importance in maintaining neutrality and fairness throughout the collaborative divorce journey. Listen to Micki discuss how vital it is to remain collected under pressure, employing techniques such as breathing exercises to maintain composure. This session promises not only a deep understanding of the collaborative model but also offers practical tools to keep both parties engaged and focused on reaching an equitable settlement.

The final chapter unveils the delicate dance between mental health and the legal system, especially when domestic violence complicates the picture. Micki touches on how the courts often lean on mental health professionals in family law, and why lawyers must be adept in both collaborative negotiation and understanding domestic violence. We wrap up with inspiring stories that speak to the transformative power of imagining a brighter future, including a case study where a drawn-out divorce reached a peaceful resolution in just two days thanks to the power of collaboration. This episode is an eye-opener, illuminating the path to personal growth and highlighting the hopeful horizon that lies beyond life's toughest transitions.

Join us as we welcome Dr. Jill Leibowitz, an esteemed New York City psychologist, for a candid discussion on the complexities of high-conflict divorce and its ripple effects on children. Dr. Leibowitz offers a unique perspective on the role of a therapist in these challenging scenarios, emphasizing the importance of advocating for the child's needs over the parents'. Throughout the conversation, she touches on the intricate balance parents must maintain in managing their emotional turmoil while ensuring the well-being of their children, especially in cases involving narcissistic abuse.

Listen in as we explore the profound impact of parental conflict on children and the significance of supporting them in expressing their emotions. Dr. Leibowitz shares an enlightening story from a therapy session that underscores the breakthroughs possible when children are given the space to navigate their feelings amidst family turmoil. The importance of validating children's experiences becomes a beacon for improving their circumstances, fostering a deeper understanding of the emotions at play in the aftermath of divorce.

The episode rounds off with a look at the necessity for clear and healthy communication in co-parenting, the role of emotional regulation in parenting, and the nuances of child therapy during high-conflict divorce. Dr. Leibowitz sheds light on the delicacy of therapy in such sensitive conditions, highlighting how a judge's directive can help in creating a balanced environment for the child's therapy. As we discuss these pivotal themes, the insights offered will not only resonate with those going through similar experiences but also provide a roadmap for navigating these turbulent waters with grace and empathy for the children caught in the middle.

Ever wondered about surviving high-conflict co-parenting situations in blended families? We're unraveling this complex challenge, alongside the inspiring Marit from Blended Family Frappé, who shares her insights on how step-parents often find themselves advocating for boundaries and resources amidst the chaotic new roles they assume. In this enlightening conversation, she sheds light on the profound impact these situations have on children and how we can navigate them.

This episode is about recognizing the harsh realities of high-conflict co-parenting and finding effective strategies for maintaining a sense of normalcy for the children involved. We share our personal experiences and practical tips, emphasizing the importance of not getting entangled in the high-conflict parent's drama and chaos, but rather focusing on being true to oneself. Our candid conversation provides invaluable insights into coping with legal abuse and the importance of setting boundaries, based on personal experiences.

The essence of this episode is to provide support and understanding for blended families dealing with high-conflict co-parenting situations. We explore the challenges step-parents face, the impact of empathy on relationships, and the significance of understanding a new partner's past experiences. We also delve into the effects of high-conflict co-parenting on children, including loyalty bonds and alienation, while emphasizing the importance of therapy and self-work in healing from trauma and creating healthy relationships. With this episode, our aim is to provide a beacon of hope for those in the throes of high-conflict co-parenting, offering resources, and support to navigate these turbulent waters. So, gear up for a heartfelt and enlightening conversation.

Get ready to navigate the turbulent waters of triggers and trauma within the family court system, guided by our guest, Leslie Miller, a seasoned psychotherapist and coach. Learn why court involvement can be so triggering and the profound impact it can have on our health. As we unravel the complexities of trauma, we draw parallels with the court involvement, such as the unsettling loss of control and autonomy, which can amplify the effects of previous abuse. We delve into the intricacies of high-conflict divorces, the anxiety of waiting periods before hearings, and the frustration of silence from your own lawyer. This episode is a beacon for anyone braving the challenging process of high-conflict divorce.

We also discuss practical ways of managing triggers and setting healthy boundaries, especially in tough co-parenting scenarios. Strategies range from recognizing triggers to self-care and mindfulness practices, as well as premeditating responses to common situations. Emphasizing the importance of seeking professional aid when dealing with custody issues, we provide a comprehensive guide for individuals faced with these challenges. From discussing hyper-vigilance to emphasizing the value of self-care and seeking support when dealing with narcissistic abuse, this episode is an insightful support system.

Lastly, we focus on how to manage court proceedings and high-conflict divorces. We delve into the world of hypervigilance and its impact, discussing how traumatic memories can unexpectedly resurface even years later, and how they are stored in the body. We also highlight the importance of self-care and soliciting support, emphasizing the value of coaching and consultation.

Get ready to shatter the mystery of financial deception in divorce cases with our guest James Peet, a Certified Fraud Examiner. James, a former police officer turned financial fraud detective, brings to light how ignorance of your financial details can lead to the concealment of assets in relationships. As we delve into this revelation, you'll gain insights into the financial dynamics in partnerships and the importance of being financially literate.

Peel back the layers of financial infidelity as we uncover the red flags in marriages: missing mail, unexplained purchases, secret bank accounts, and misuse of online payment platforms. We'll guide you through personal experiences and practical advice on how to navigate these murky financial waters. We can't stress enough the importance of regularly updating beneficiaries and running credit reports.

We also venture into the realm of forensic accounting and fraud investigations. Learn about the costs involved, the potential for attorney's fees reimbursement, and the invaluable role these experts play in court proceedings. Confront the challenges of non-compliant parties and discover the power of subpoenas in obtaining needed financial documents. James not only brings his expertise as a Certified Fraud Examiner but also his unique perspective as a science fiction writer (!) to the episode. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that will arm you with tools to recognize and combat financial deception.

We're thrilled to have Asia Scarlett-Jones, a seasoned NYC family law attorney, share her unique insights about minority challenges in the legal system. Drawing from her own experiences, Asia speaks candidly about the glaring lack of diversity in the court system and its repercussions on minority families, particularly the ones grappling with language barriers.

We also tackle the pertinent issue of the urgent need for translators and diverse representation within the system. In a deep dive into the emotional landscape of family court, we focus on managing expectations and emotions.

Asia emphasizes the need for legal professionals to remain detached yet empathetic, particularly while representing victims of domestic violence. She shares how attorneys can serve as a crucial filter, straddling the delicate balance between their clients’ emotional turmoil and rational decision-making. We also underscore the significance of prioritizing a child's best interest.

Asia advises on exploring alternative methods like mediation to circumvent the negative effects of litigation on families. Navigating the labyrinthine legal system can be daunting, which is why we discuss the significance of court orders and how to maintain an effective attorney-client relationship. Asia presents valuable advice about communicating with your lawyer, managing expectations, and nurturing this unique relationship. She shares her experience of guiding clients through the trying process of divorce and the importance of supporting them even after their case is settled.

Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with profound insights and practical advice on co-parenting, family law, and navigating the legal system.