For many survivors of domestic abuse, the divorce is only one part of a much bigger picture.

There may also be unresolved issues involving financial abuse, coercive control, hidden assets, intimidation, or other legal matters that require separate consideration.

In some situations, it can make practical and emotional sense to finalise the divorce first, allowing one chapter to close before addressing other, often more complex, legal proceedings.

Obtaining the divorce can provide certainty, independence, and the ability to begin rebuilding your life. It can also reduce the ongoing legal ties between former spouses while giving you the time and emotional space to prepare for any other matters that may need to be addressed.

It is important to understand that a divorce and other legal proceedings are not always the same. Depending on the laws of the country involved, issues such as criminal allegations, financial misconduct, or other civil claims may follow different legal processes and timetables.

Every case is different. The best order in which to deal with legal matters will depend on your individual circumstances and the advice of your lawyer.

For many survivors, however, there is enormous relief in reaching one important milestone.

The divorce is no longer hanging over them.

It marks the end of one chapter, allowing them to move forward while deciding, with professional advice, how and when to deal with any remaining legal issues.

Sometimes, the first victory is simply reclaiming your freedom.

Everything else can be addressed, one step at a time.