In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Margaret "Pegi" Price who brings lived experience and legal acumen to the topic of divorce and parenting plans involving neurodivergent children. Drawing from her own journey as a parent of an autistic child and her career in law, Pegi shares the realities families face when the legal system isn't built to accommodate neurodivergent needs. Together, we explore what it means to create supportive, future-focused parenting plans, how to advocate for fair financial contributions, and the long-term impact of unequal caregiving responsibilities. From managing transitions between households to navigating denial of diagnosis, this episode is filled with wisdom for parents, professionals, and allies alike.
We also unpack:
The risks of "cookie cutter" legal forms for neurodivergent families
Why crisis planning is crucial for families with neurodivergent children
How to honour neurodivergent children’s autonomy, routines, and emotional safety post-separation
The hidden cost of invisible labour and caregiving work
Whether you're currently navigating separation or supporting someone who is, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and practical strategies grounded in justice and neuroaffirming support.
Dr. Margaret ‘Pegi’ Price is a Professor and Academic Program Director for the Master of Public Administration Program. She has held teaching and department head positions at several colleges and universities in the Midwest. She received a National Teacher of the Year award in 1992. She earned her Juris Doctorate at the University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida, where she was a Senior Editor of the Law Review and inducted into Phi Delta Phi, the legal honors society. She earned the rst perfect score in the history of the University of Florida in the Law Review annual writing competition. She completed her B.A. in History at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville, Florida, where she received multiple academic honors. With over 25 years of experience practicing law—including civil trial work and serving as a prosecutor—Dr. Price has also acted as an expert witness or consultant in more than 75 lawsuits involving special needs, making her a champion for justice and equity.
Books authored by Dr. Margaret “Pegi” Price:
The Special Needs Child and Divorce: A Practical Guide to Handling and Evaluating Cases
Divorce and the Special Needs Child: A Guide for Parents
For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:
Caitlin Hughes
Social media: @cathartic.collaborations
Teena Mogler
Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth
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