Finding Freedom After Separation | Legal Advice for Single Mums in Australia

Finding Freedom After Separation: A Conversation with Family Lawyer Ella Hickman

🔗 Read the full podcast blog on Finding Freedom After Separation: Practical Legal Advice for Single Mums: https://beanstalkmums.com.au/podcast/freedom-after-separation-practical-legal-tips-for-mums/

💛 Join our single mum community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/SingleMumVine

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Separation can feel like the end of something, but what if it’s also the beginning of something better?

In this episode of the Beanstalk Mums Podcast, I’m joined by family lawyer Ella Hickman to unpack what freedom after separation really looks like—practically, emotionally, and legally. Whether you're just beginning the process or still dealing with the ripple effects, Ella shares expert advice and gentle encouragement every step of the way.

We explore common legal misconceptions, how to create realistic parenting plans, where to begin when separation becomes inevitable, and what kind of legal clarity brings the most peace. Ella’s down-to-earth style makes even the complex feel manageable, helping you take that next step with confidence.

💛 You’ll also hear how to handle a difficult ex, prioritise safety and finances, and why the right support network is crucial—not just for surviving separation, but for rebuilding something better.

 

⏱️ Timestamps:

00:00 – Welcome + Meet Ella Hickman 01:58 – What “freedom” looks like post-separation 04:21 – The biggest legal misconceptions single mums have 07:45 – First steps to take when separating (legally + emotionally) 11:30 – Creating parenting arrangements that actually work 15:00 – Talking finances: urgent priorities for single mums 18:42 – Dealing with a difficult ex during the legal process 22:10 – How the right legal advice empowers emotional healing 26:33 – Ella’s final message of encouragement for mums

 

Links for this episode:

If you’re a mum considering separation or divorce but don’t have the means for a private lawyer, these resources are here to support you.

🆓 Legal Aid Commissions - Each state and territory offers a Legal Aid Commission. They provide free legal advice, assistance with court documents, and representation in family law matters—especially if you’re on a lower income.

🆓 Community Legal Centres (CLCs) - Community legal centres offer free family law guidance, cover separation and domestic violence, and often assist when Legal Aid isn’t suitable. There are nearly 200 across Australia, including specialist services like Redfern and Kingsford Legal Centres in NSW.

🆓 Family Relationship Advice Line -This national helpline (1800 050 321) refers callers to legal, financial, and mediation services. They can help you explore all available free options.

🆓 Women’s Legal Services - Offers free, confidential legal advice and tailored support, especially for mums experiencing separation or domestic violence.

✨ https://hickmanfamilylawyers.com.au — Learn more about Ella Hickman Family Lawyers. Expert guidance and compassionate legal support tailored specifically for single mums navigating separation.

👯‍♀️ https://www.facebook.com/groups/SingleMumVine — Don’t forget to join the Single Mum Vine on Facebook! It’s the perfect spot to connect with fellow single mums for support and advice.

🎙️ https://beanstalkmums.com.au/podcast — Our brand-new widget is live on the Beanstalk Mums website! Drop us a voice message with your thoughts or questions; you might hear them in a future episode.

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