Dear Divorce Diary - With Daz & Jop

Darren Mort-Family Law Barrister & Joplin Higgins-Family Law Solicitor
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When a relationship ends, it can feel like the world is breaking apart — legally, emotionally and practically. The Dear Divorce Diary Podcast exists to guide you through that difficult landscape with clarity, compassion and a child-focused mindset. Each episode, Darren “Daz” Mort and Joplin “Jop” Higgins draw on their extensive experience within the family law system to unpack what separation and divorce really look like — not just on paper, but in real life. They believe that families deserve dignity, children deserve protection, and adults deserve guidance that is calm, respectful and grounded in expertise rather than conflict. Together, they explore the issues so many couples face when separating, including: How to divorce with dignity Understanding the family court process What to expect in mediation How to co-parent respectfully and consistently Financial and property settlement — explained in plain English Parenting arrangements after divorce How to avoid court and resolve disputes constructively Practical tips for separating parents Child-focused decision making and emotional awareness When to involve a lawyer or barrister Better communication during conflict and separation And because no two separations look the same, you can be part of the conversation. Listeners are invited to submit their questions for Daz & Jop, with future episodes dedicated to answering real experiences, real challenges and real concerns from the people who need guidance most. Whether you’re contemplating separation, navigating court, co-parenting, or simply trying to put your children first through the uncertainty — The Dear Divorce Diary Podcast offers steady, professional guidance to help reshape the path ahead. Real law. Real families. Real conversations. Subscribe, listen, learn — and know that you’re not alone. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 3d ago

    Violence in MAFS

    Is reality TV entertaining us? Or normalising toxic, abusive behaviour? In Episode 20 of Dear Divorce Diary, Darren Mort and Joplin Higgins pull no punches as they unpack the troubling portrayal of relationships, misogyny and family violence on reality television. From the way contestants are edited and portrayed to casting choices, relationship dynamics and the role alcohol plays in those infamous late-night dinner parties, Darren and Joplin question the responsibility of producers, networks and the media in shaping how we view toxic and abusive behaviour. This is a conversation about accountability, responsibility and the messages we accept in the name of entertainment. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: Are reality TV shows reflecting society’s attitudes towards relationships, or shaping them? FIND US ON SOCIALS: Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube. Search Dear Divorce Diary with Daz & Jop. 👇 Share your thoughts in the comments. 👍 Like, subscribe and share to help spread the word! NEED SUPPORT? If this episode raises concerns for you or someone you know, contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800respect.org.au for confidential support. Links: https://www.youtube.com/@DearDivorceDiary-withDazJop Full-Service Boutique Law Firm Hunter Valley, Maitland: Joplin Lawyers Darren Mort - Family Law Barrister, Arbitrator, Mediator Instagram

  2. Jul 24

    Who Gets the Dog? Pets, Property and the Emotional Custody Battle in Divorce

    In this episode of Dear Divorce Diaries, family law experts Darren Mort (Family Law Barrister) and Joplin Higgins (Family Law Solicitor) explore one of the most emotionally charged and increasingly common issues in modern separation: what happens to pets during divorce? With a special guest appearance from “Buddy” 🐶, the conversation unpacks how Australian family law now treats pets—legally defined as “companion animals”—and what that means for separating couples. Pets Are Now “Companion Animals” Under the LawThe episode opens with a major legal update: Under recent changes to the Family Law Act, pets are now formally recognised as companion animals However, they are still legally classified as property This means: No “custody” or “residence” orders in the traditional sense Courts determine ownership and possession, not shared parenting arrangements Why Pets Matter So Much in SeparationBoth hosts acknowledge the emotional reality: Pets are often seen as “fur babies” They play a significant emotional role in family structures Attachment can be strong for: Children Partners Entire households Despite this emotional significance, the law still treats them through a property lens, not a family member lens. How Courts Decide Who Gets the PetThe hosts break down the key factors courts consider: Who is the registered owner Who purchased the animal Who performs daily care: Feeding Walking Grooming Veterinary care Who has had the primary relationship with the pet The court may also consider: Financial responsibility Living arrangements post-separation Practical ability to care for the animal Family Violence and PetsA serious and important aspect of the discussion: Pets can be used as tools in coercive control and emotional abuse Courts recognise that animals may be: Subject to harm Used to intimidate or manipulate a partner or children This can influence outcomes where safety concerns exist No “Shared Custody” of Pets (Legally)One of the clearest legal points in the episode: Australian family law does not recognise shared care arrangements for pets Outcomes are limited to: One party retaining ownership Transfer of ownership Sale or disposal of the animal (rare and undesirable outcome) The hosts reflect on how this contrasts with common informal agreements people try to make (e.g. “week-on, week-off pet arrangements”), which have no formal legal standing under the Act. Emotional and Legal Conflict in Pet DisputesThe episode highlights real-world tensions: Pets are often used as leverage in separation disputes Disputes can reflect deeper relationship breakdown issues Courts are increasingly aware of: Strategic use of pets in negotiations Emotional pressure placed through pet possession Case Insight: When Attachment Collides with OwnershipA case example discussed: A child formed a strong attachment to a dog Despite emotional factors, the court awarded the dog to the parent who was the primary owner and caregiver Key takeaway: Emotional attachment is considered, but does not override ownership and caregiving evidence. The Parrot in Court – A Humorous Legal Anecdote 🦜A memorable story from the episode: A court dispute over a macaw parrot The bird repeated insulting phrases during proceedings The judge observed the behaviour and awarded the bird to the husband The story highlights: How unpredictable evidence can be The humorous reality of property disputes involving animals Strategic Insight: Pets Can Become LeverageThe hosts caution listeners that: Pets can unintentionally become bargaining tools Early legal advice is important to avoid escalation Courts are increasingly attentive to underlying coercion or manipulation Connect with Dear Divorce DiaryFollow Dear Divorce Diary for more real conversations about separation, parenting, family violence, court processes, mediation, and rebuilding life after divorce. Available on: YouTube Spotify TikTok Instagram LinkedIn Listeners are encouraged to continue sending topic suggestions, questions, and lived experiences via social media DMs for future episodes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Who Gets the Dog? Pets, Property and the Emotional Custody Battle in Divorce

  3. Jul 17

    Can You Withhold the Kids? When Court Orders Clash with Reality in Divorce

    In this episode of Dear Divorce Diaries, family law experts Darren Mort (Family Law Barrister) and Joplin Higgins (Family Law Solicitor) unpack one of the most emotionally charged and legally risky issues in parenting disputes: withholding children when court orders are in place—or when they’re about to be made. Through candid discussion, practical legal insight, and real courtroom dynamics, the episode explores when (if ever) a parent can justify not complying with parenting orders, and what consequences follow when they do. ⚖️ Key Themes & Discussion BreakdownThe Golden Rule: Court Orders Must Be FollowedThe episode opens with a firm reminder from both hosts: Court orders are not optional. Parents who unilaterally withhold children risk serious legal consequences. Even where frustration or concern exists, the legal system expects compliance first, action through the courts second. Darren emphasizes a strong judicial expectation of adherence unless there is a genuine and urgent safety concern. When Can a Parent Withhold Children?Joplin outlines the narrow exceptions where withholding may be justified: Exposure to family violence Drug or alcohol abuse impacting safety Neglect or serious risk factors However, both hosts stress a key distinction: Genuine risk ≠ assumptions, suspicion, or emotional reaction.They highlight a common problem in family law: Parents sometimes withhold based on beliefs (“he might be using drugs”) rather than evidence. Courts require a clear evidentiary foundation, not speculation. What Happens When a Parent Withholds a Child?If a parent refuses to comply: The other parent may bring a recovery application The court may involve the Australian Federal Police (AFP) to locate and return children Orders can escalate to warrants and enforcement mechanisms The withholding parent must later justify their actions in court Key warning: If you withhold first and explain later, you are already at a disadvantage.The “Front Foot” Strategy (Critical Advice)Both hosts agree on best practice: If you believe there is risk: File an application in proceedings immediately Provide a detailed affidavit explaining concerns Consider updating a Notice of Risk Seek urgent legal advice This approach: Protects the parent legally Ensures transparency with the court Reduces criticism for unilateral action Supervised Contact & Interim SolutionsThe episode explores supervised arrangements: Supervised contact centres can provide independent observation evidence They can ensure child safety while maintaining parental relationships However, courts are reluctant to impose long-term supervision Contravention vs Recovery ApplicationsA detailed procedural discussion covers: Recovery Applications Focus: returning a child to compliance with orders Can trigger AFP involvement Contravention Applications Focus: punishing breaches of orders Potential outcomes: Fines Orders for counselling Parenting programs In extreme cases, imprisonment However, both hosts note: Contravention applications are often slow, expensive, and strategically complex Courts frequently encourage parties to streamline proceedings Weaponisation of Children in DisputesA major theme of the episode is misuse of allegations: Courts are alert to strategic withholding Emotional conflict between parents must not override child-focused reasoning Judges scrutinise whether claims are: Genuine protection concerns Or relational retaliation Key Legal Insight: Best Interests of the ChildThroughout the episode, the guiding principle remains: Children’s relationships with each parent are separate from parental conflict.Courts assess: Safety Stability Emotional wellbeing Capacity of each parent to support the other relationship Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Can You Withhold the Kids? When Court Orders Clash with Reality in Divorce

  4. Jul 10

    Can You Take My Kids Overseas? — The Relocation Battle Every Separated Parent Fears

    In this emotionally charged and deeply practical episode of Dear Divorce Diary, Darren Mort and Joplin Higgins tackle one of the most heartbreaking and legally complex issues in family law: relocation after separation. What happens when one parent wants to move interstate… or overseas… with the children? Can the court stop a parent from leaving Australia? Does a mother or father have the “right” to move home? What happens when children are caught between two countries, two cultures, and two parents who both love them? Through a powerful role-play scenario involving a separated Australian-Norwegian family, Darren and Joplin unpack exactly how relocation disputes unfold inside the Family Court — from emotional arguments and legal strategy to parenting proposals and the harsh reality of what judges actually look for. This episode explores the devastating emotional impact relocation cases can have on families, while giving listeners a rare behind-the-scenes look at how these cases are argued, assessed, and ultimately decided. 🌍 International Relocation After DivorceDarren and Joplin explore what happens when one parent wants to relocate internationally with children following separation — particularly where one parent feels isolated, unsupported, or desperately wants to return to family overseas. The episode examines: Moving overseas after divorce or separation Relocating interstate with children The difference between a parent’s rights and a child’s best interests Whether courts can stop a parent from leaving Australia The emotional impact of relocation litigation The Norway Scenario: A Realistic Courtroom Role PlayThrough an emotionally realistic mock separation between “Svetlana” and her Australian husband, the episode demonstrates: How relocation disputes begin Common mistakes parents make during negotiations How quickly conversations become adversarial Why wording and attitude matter in court The danger of becoming positional and hostile The fictional scenario highlights issues including: Sick overseas parents Cultural identity Children with dual heritage Long-distance parenting Schooling and support systems Maintaining meaningful relationships with both parents Key Legal Topics Discussed⚖️ What Judges Look For in Relocation CasesDarren and Joplin explain that relocation cases are not about “winning” as a parent — they are about what is in the best interests of the children. Key considerations include: The child’s relationship with each parent Existing care arrangements Emotional and practical support available overseas Whether the relocating parent can facilitate ongoing contact Schooling and stability Financial practicality Long-term parenting proposals Emotional wellbeing of the relocating parent ✈️ Can the Court Stop a Parent Leaving Australia?The episode discusses: Airport watchlists and injunctions Recovery orders Relocation applications Interim versus final hearings Why courts rarely make permanent relocation decisions urgently Listeners gain insight into how quickly relocation matters can escalate once one parent fears the children may leave the country. 📱 Technology and Long-Distance ParentingDarren and Joplin discuss how modern communication tools like: FaceTime Skype Video calls Messaging apps have changed the way courts assess international parenting arrangements. But they also explain the harsh truth: Technology can help maintain relationships — but it can never fully replace physical parenting time.The Importance of Child-Focused ProposalsOne of the strongest themes throughout the episode is this: Connect with Dear Divorce DiaryFollow Dear Divorce Diary for more real conversations about separation, parenting, family violence, court processes, mediation, and rebuilding life after divorce. Available on: YouTube Spotify TikTok Instagram LinkedIn Listeners are encouraged to continue sending topic suggestions, questions, and lived experiences via social media DMs for future episodes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Can You Take My Kids Overseas? — The Relocation Battle Every Separated Parent Fears

  5. Jul 3

    Pornography, Power & Divorce: The Family Law Conversations Nobody Wants To Have

    In one of the most confronting and candid episodes of Dear Divorce Diary so far, Darren Mort and Joplin Higgins tackle a topic rarely spoken about openly in family law — pornography, addiction, intimacy, coercion, and the impact it can have on marriages, parenting, finances, and divorce proceedings. This is not a sensationalist conversation. It’s a nuanced and thoughtful discussion about how pornography increasingly appears in affidavit material, relationship breakdowns, financial disputes, coercive control allegations, and parenting concerns inside the family court system. Darren and Jop explore the difficult reality that pornography itself is not illegal — but the way it affects relationships, consent, emotional safety, financial stability, and family dynamics can become deeply problematic. When Pornography Becomes a Family Law IssueDarren and Jop discuss how pornography increasingly surfaces during: Initial client consultations Parenting disputes Financial settlements Family violence allegations Affidavit evidence Addiction-related relationship breakdowns The conversation examines the point where: private viewing habits, online platforms, or sexual behaviours …move from personal choice into behaviour that damages a relationship or family unit. Pornography, Addiction & Relationship BreakdownThe hosts unpack: How compulsive pornography use can affect intimacy Emotional disconnection between partners The erosion of trust and sexual relationships Sleep disruption and addictive behaviours Escalating sexual conduct and risk-taking Joplin explains how addiction patterns seen in pornography cases can mirror: gambling addiction, drug addiction, alcohol dependency, and other compulsive behaviours that destabilise families. The Financial Impact Inside Marriage & DivorceOne of the major themes of the episode is how pornography-related spending can become relevant in property proceedings. Darren and Jop discuss: subscription-based adult platforms, spending on explicit online content, OnlyFans, escort and brothel services, hidden financial expenditure, and the impact these behaviours can have on shared family finances. The episode explores how financial depletion linked to addiction can become a significant issue during property settlements. OnlyFans, Online Content & CoercionThe conversation takes a modern turn as the hosts discuss: the growing presence of OnlyFans in family law cases, coercive pressure within relationships, online sexual content creation, and how explicit content can later become weaponised during legal proceedings. Joplin raises concerns about: coercive behaviour involving online adult content, financial pressure placed on partners, and the emotional harm that can follow when intimate material later surfaces during separation. Parenting Concerns & Exposure to ChildrenDarren shares examples of cases where: children accidentally discovered explicit content, browsing histories were exposed, or concerns arose regarding the type of material being viewed in the home. The hosts discuss: parental responsibility, safeguarding children, exposure risks, and how family courts may assess concerns when children are impacted by adult content within the household. Pornography & Family ViolenceOne of the most serious parts of the episode explores the overlap between: pornography, coercion, aggressive sexual behaviour, and family violence. The discussion examines: sexual coercion inside relationships, desensitisation, consent issues, and how some behaviours may cross into emotionally or physically abusive conduct. Importantly, Darren and Jop stress the need for: open communication, early intervention, counselling, and support before these issues escalate and destroy relationships. Connect With Dear Divorce DiaryHave a topic or lived experience you’d like Darren and Joplin to discuss? Reach out via: Instagram TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Spotify Search for: Dear Divorce Diary Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Pornography, Power & Divorce: The Family Law Conversations Nobody Wants To Have

  6. Jun 26

    Community Question: Mediation or Manipulation? The Hidden Truth About Family Law Negotiations

    In this powerful and deeply practical episode of Dear Divorce Diary, Darren Mort and Joplin Higgins unpack one of the most misunderstood parts of the family law system — mediation. After receiving a flood of listener messages and social media comments, Darren and Jop dive into the reality of Family Dispute Resolution (FDR), court-ordered mediation, shuttle negotiations, coercive control during mediation, and whether the system is genuinely helping separating families — or simply creating another layer of trauma. From unsafe mediation experiences to “tick-box” certificates, legally assisted negotiations, family violence dynamics, and the emotional pressure placed on victim survivors, this episode delivers a brutally honest look at what really happens behind closed doors in family law negotiations. Are Family Law Mediations Actually Safe?The episode begins with a confronting listener message from a woman who says she felt deeply unsafe during a shuttle mediation — despite being physically separated from her former partner. Darren and Joplin explore: Why “safe” in legal terms can feel very different emotionally for victim survivors The hidden trauma of mediation environments How coercive control can continue during negotiations — even without direct contact Why some victim survivors feel pressured into agreements The “Tick Box” Problem in Family LawOne of the biggest discussion points is the criticism of mediation certificates under Section 60I of the Family Law Act. The hosts discuss: Whether some mediations have become procedural hurdles rather than genuine negotiations Concerns that some parties attend mediation in bad faith Why some mediators fail to identify abusive or manipulative behaviour The frustration of receiving the same certificate as a party who engaged respectfully Joplin raises concerns about: Inexperienced mediators Delays in government-funded mediation services Lack of legal understanding from some facilitators The risks this creates in family violence matters When Mediation Becomes Another Form of ControlThis episode takes a powerful turn as Darren and Jop discuss how: Refusing to attend mediation Deliberately withholding financial documents Failing to negotiate genuinely Creating delays …can become extensions of coercive and controlling behaviour. The conversation examines: Power imbalances in negotiations How emotional abuse can continue through legal processes The psychological impact of prolonged proceedings Why some cases are simply “not settleable” Legally Assisted Mediation vs Government ServicesDarren and Jop openly compare: Private mediation services Government-funded FDR programs Court-based mediation Child-inclusive conferences Registrar-led negotiations They discuss why: The skill and experience of the mediator matters enormously Family law knowledge is critical in parenting disputes Cheap mediation can sometimes become expensive later Good mediation requires preparation, realism, and strategy Key Topics Covered Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) Section 60I certificates Coercive control in mediation Shuttle mediation Victim survivor safety Family violence and negotiation Court-ordered mediation Parenting disputes Child-inclusive mediation Litigation fatigue Power imbalances in family law Reality testing in negotiations Mediation strategies Trauma-informed legal practice “Some cases are not settleable.” Darren and Jop discuss why forcing compromise in high-conflict or family violence matters can sometimes create more harm than good. “You get what you pay for.” Joplin delivers a candid assessment of under-resourced mediation services and why legal expertise matters during negotiations. Connect With Dear Divorce DiaryHave a question or topic you’d like Darren and Joplin to discuss? Reach out via: Instagram TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Search for: Dear Divorce Diary Your lived experiences and questions continue shaping the conversations featured on the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Community Question: Mediation or Manipulation? The Hidden Truth About Family Law Negotiations

  7. Jun 19

    Community Question: Representing Yourself in Family Court? What You MUST Know Before Final Hearing

    In this practical and highly informative episode of Dear Divorce Diary, family law barrister Darren Mort and family lawyer Joplin Higgins answer one of the most common questions sent in by listeners navigating the family law system without legal representation. Drawing directly from a listener question submitted through social media, Darren and Joplin unpack the reality of preparing for a final hearing in the Family Court as a self-represented litigant. This episode delivers real-world insight, courtroom practicalities, and critical guidance for people trying to navigate one of the most stressful legal processes of their lives. Preparing for Final Hearing Without a LawyerThe episode begins with a listener question from someone representing themselves in Family Court who is unsure: What documents need to be filed Whether submissions are required How to comply with court orders How to avoid offending the court Darren and Joplin break down the practical realities of self-representation and explain why preparation, organisation, and understanding court expectations are absolutely critical. Understanding Court Orders & Filing DeadlinesJoplin stresses the importance of: Reading every court order carefully Creating checklists Tracking deadlines properly Filing documents early — not at the last minute The discussion highlights how procedural mistakes can seriously affect a case and why practical organisation matters just as much as legal argument. The Often-Forgotten “Notice of Risk” DocumentOne of the standout moments of the episode is Joplin’s practical advice regarding: The Notice of Child Abuse / Notice of Risk document Why parties should consider updating it How significant incidents often occur after proceedings first begin Why these documents remain important throughout parenting proceedings This section provides listeners with valuable insight into how courts assess risk and family violence concerns. Affidavits: Telling Your Story ProperlyDarren and Joplin explain one of the biggest mistakes self-represented litigants make: Treating their affidavit as an emotional response document instead of evidence The episode explores: Why affidavits should focus on your own case theory The dangers of responding line-by-line to the other party How word limits matter The importance of relevance and structure Why “less is more” in many areas of litigation Joplin explains that an affidavit should present: “Your story — not just your reaction to someone else’s story.”Why Independent Legal Review Is Worth ItEven for people representing themselves, both Darren and Joplin strongly recommend: Having a lawyer review documents before filing Getting advice on hearsay and relevance Understanding evidentiary rules Refining affidavit structure and tone The episode explains why even limited legal guidance can significantly strengthen a self-represented case. Key Themes Discussed Self-represented litigants in Family Court Preparing for final hearing Family law affidavit drafting Court filing tips Case outlines and submissions Notice of Risk documents Parenting proceedings Evidence and strategy in family law Practical Family Court guidance Family violence considerations in litigation Listener TakeawayThis episode is essential listening for: Self-represented litigants People preparing for Family Court Parents involved in parenting disputes Anyone trying to understand how Family Court actually works behind the scenes It offers practical, grounded advice from two experienced family law professionals who understand both the legal system — and the emotional toll it can take on families. Connect With Dear Divorce DiaryFollow Dear Divorce Diary for honest conversations around: Family law Separation Parenting disputes Domestic and family violence Court preparation Trauma-informed legal practice Real-life courtroom experiences 🎧 Available now on podcast platforms, YouTube, TikTok, Instagram and LinkedIn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Community Question: Representing Yourself in Family Court? What You MUST Know Before Final Hearing

  8. Jun 12

    Community Question: “Why Didn’t They Just Leave?” — The Hidden Reality of Coercive Control

    ⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions surrounding coercive control, family violence, emotional abuse, psychological harm, victim survival responses, and trauma-informed legal practice. Listener discretion is advised. In this deeply important follow-up episode of Dear Divorce Diary, family law barrister Darren Mort and family lawyer Joplin Higgins revisit one of the most confronting and misunderstood topics in family law: coercive control. Responding directly to a listener message sent via TikTok following their earlier episode on coercive and controlling behaviour, Darren and Joplin unpack one of the most common — and harmful — public questions surrounding family violence: “Why didn’t they just leave?” This conversation explores the reality that coercive control is rarely obvious, rarely isolated, and almost never simple. What This Episode CoversUnderstanding Coercive Control Beyond Physical ViolenceJoplin explains that coercive control is not one singular act — it is often a layered pattern of behaviours that can include: Emotional abuse Financial control Isolation from support networks Threats and intimidation Manipulation Monitoring and surveillance Psychological degradation Fear-based dependency The discussion highlights how difficult coercive control can be to identify, particularly because many victim survivors may not initially recognise the behaviour as abuse themselves. The Importance of Asking the Right QuestionsA major focus of this episode is how lawyers, professionals, friends, and support people can better respond to victim survivors. Joplin discusses: Trauma-informed communication The importance of indirect and follow-up questioning Avoiding re-traumatisation Creating emotional safety during disclosure Taking detailed notes so victims don’t have to repeatedly relive trauma The episode shines a light on how sensitive and skilled communication can help identify patterns of coercive behaviour that may otherwise remain hidden. Why Leaving Isn’t SimpleDarren and Joplin strongly challenge the damaging misconception that victims can “just leave.” The episode explores: Fear of retaliation Threats of self-harm by perpetrators Threats involving children Financial dependence Emotional trauma Safety planning The psychological paralysis caused by ongoing abuse They explain that leaving a coercively controlling relationship is often the most dangerous period for a victim survivor. How Friends & Family Can Safely Support Someone Experiencing AbuseOne of the most practical sections of this episode focuses on what supportive friends can do. Joplin shares examples of trauma-informed support strategies including: Creating a safe home environment Establishing emergency safe words Holding important documents securely Providing emotional support without judgment Avoiding pressure or ultimatums Respecting the victim survivor’s pace and safety assessment The conversation stresses that support should centre around safety and empowerment — not control or expectation. Listener NoteIf this episode raises concerns for you or someone you know, please seek support from a qualified domestic violence service, counsellor, legal professional, or emergency service in your area. Connect With Dear Divorce DiaryFollow Dear Divorce Diary for more real conversations around: Family law Separation Parenting disputes Trauma and recovery Domestic and family violence Court processes Relationships and emotional wellbeing 🎧 Available on podcast platforms, YouTube, TikTok, Instagram and LinkedIn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Community Question: “Why Didn’t They Just Leave?” — The Hidden Reality of Coercive Control
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About

When a relationship ends, it can feel like the world is breaking apart — legally, emotionally and practically. The Dear Divorce Diary Podcast exists to guide you through that difficult landscape with clarity, compassion and a child-focused mindset. Each episode, Darren “Daz” Mort and Joplin “Jop” Higgins draw on their extensive experience within the family law system to unpack what separation and divorce really look like — not just on paper, but in real life. They believe that families deserve dignity, children deserve protection, and adults deserve guidance that is calm, respectful and grounded in expertise rather than conflict. Together, they explore the issues so many couples face when separating, including: How to divorce with dignity Understanding the family court process What to expect in mediation How to co-parent respectfully and consistently Financial and property settlement — explained in plain English Parenting arrangements after divorce How to avoid court and resolve disputes constructively Practical tips for separating parents Child-focused decision making and emotional awareness When to involve a lawyer or barrister Better communication during conflict and separation And because no two separations look the same, you can be part of the conversation. Listeners are invited to submit their questions for Daz & Jop, with future episodes dedicated to answering real experiences, real challenges and real concerns from the people who need guidance most. Whether you’re contemplating separation, navigating court, co-parenting, or simply trying to put your children first through the uncertainty — The Dear Divorce Diary Podcast offers steady, professional guidance to help reshape the path ahead. Real law. Real families. Real conversations. Subscribe, listen, learn — and know that you’re not alone. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Darren Mort-Family Law Barrister & Joplin Higgins-Family Law Solicitor
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    22
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 208fa150-d270-11f1-9cf5-f70c4ad54aba

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