Dear Divorce Diary - With Daz & Jop

Darren Mort-Family Law Barrister & Joplin Higgins-Family Law Solicitor

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 dignityUnderstanding the family court processWhat to expect in mediationHow to co-parent respectfully and consistentlyFinancial and property settlement — explained in plain EnglishParenting arrangements after divorceHow to avoid court and resolve disputes constructivelyPractical tips for separating parentsChild-focused decision making and emotional awarenessWhen to involve a lawyer or barristerBetter 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. 5d ago

    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 separationRelocating interstate with childrenThe difference between a parent’s rights and a child’s best interestsWhether courts can stop a parent from leaving AustraliaThe emotional impact of relocation litigationThe Norway Scenario: A Realistic Courtroom Role PlayThrough an emotionally realistic mock separation between “Svetlana” and her Australian husband, the episode demonstrates: How relocation disputes beginCommon mistakes parents make during negotiationsHow quickly conversations become adversarialWhy wording and attitude matter in courtThe danger of becoming positional and hostileThe fictional scenario highlights issues including: Sick overseas parentsCultural identityChildren with dual heritageLong-distance parentingSchooling and support systemsMaintaining meaningful relationships with both parentsKey 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 parentExisting care arrangementsEmotional and practical support available overseasWhether the relocating parent can facilitate ongoing contactSchooling and stabilityFinancial practicalityLong-term parenting proposalsEmotional wellbeing of the relocating parent✈️ Can the Court Stop a Parent Leaving Australia?The episode discusses: Airport watchlists and injunctionsRecovery ordersRelocation applicationsInterim versus final hearingsWhy courts rarely make permanent relocation decisions urgentlyListeners 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: FaceTimeSkypeVideo callsMessaging appshave 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: YouTubeSpotifyTikTokInstagramLinkedInListeners 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.

  2. 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 consultationsParenting disputesFinancial settlementsFamily violence allegationsAffidavit evidenceAddiction-related relationship breakdownsThe 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 intimacyEmotional disconnection between partnersThe erosion of trust and sexual relationshipsSleep disruption and addictive behavioursEscalating sexual conduct and risk-takingJoplin 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: InstagramTikTokLinkedInYouTubeSpotifySearch for: Dear Divorce Diary Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  3. 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 survivorsThe hidden trauma of mediation environmentsHow coercive control can continue during negotiations — even without direct contactWhy some victim survivors feel pressured into agreementsThe “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 negotiationsConcerns that some parties attend mediation in bad faithWhy some mediators fail to identify abusive or manipulative behaviourThe frustration of receiving the same certificate as a party who engaged respectfullyJoplin raises concerns about: Inexperienced mediatorsDelays in government-funded mediation servicesLack of legal understanding from some facilitatorsThe risks this creates in family violence mattersWhen Mediation Becomes Another Form of ControlThis episode takes a powerful turn as Darren and Jop discuss how: Refusing to attend mediationDeliberately withholding financial documentsFailing to negotiate genuinelyCreating delays…can become extensions of coercive and controlling behaviour. The conversation examines: Power imbalances in negotiationsHow emotional abuse can continue through legal processesThe psychological impact of prolonged proceedingsWhy some cases are simply “not settleable”Legally Assisted Mediation vs Government ServicesDarren and Jop openly compare: Private mediation servicesGovernment-funded FDR programsCourt-based mediationChild-inclusive conferencesRegistrar-led negotiationsThey discuss why: The skill and experience of the mediator matters enormouslyFamily law knowledge is critical in parenting disputesCheap mediation can sometimes become expensive laterGood mediation requires preparation, realism, and strategyKey Topics CoveredFamily Dispute Resolution (FDR)Section 60I certificatesCoercive control in mediationShuttle mediationVictim survivor safetyFamily violence and negotiationCourt-ordered mediationParenting disputesChild-inclusive mediationLitigation fatiguePower imbalances in family lawReality testing in negotiationsMediation strategiesTrauma-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: InstagramTikTokLinkedInYouTubeSearch 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.

  4. 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 filedWhether submissions are requiredHow to comply with court ordersHow to avoid offending the courtDarren 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 carefullyCreating checklistsTracking deadlines properlyFiling documents early — not at the last minuteThe 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 documentWhy parties should consider updating itHow significant incidents often occur after proceedings first beginWhy these documents remain important throughout parenting proceedingsThis 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 evidenceThe episode explores: Why affidavits should focus on your own case theoryThe dangers of responding line-by-line to the other partyHow word limits matterThe importance of relevance and structureWhy “less is more” in many areas of litigationJoplin 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 filingGetting advice on hearsay and relevanceUnderstanding evidentiary rulesRefining affidavit structure and toneThe episode explains why even limited legal guidance can significantly strengthen a self-represented case. Key Themes DiscussedSelf-represented litigants in Family CourtPreparing for final hearingFamily law affidavit draftingCourt filing tipsCase outlines and submissionsNotice of Risk documentsParenting proceedingsEvidence and strategy in family lawPractical Family Court guidanceFamily violence considerations in litigationListener TakeawayThis episode is essential listening for: Self-represented litigantsPeople preparing for Family CourtParents involved in parenting disputesAnyone trying to understand how Family Court actually works behind the scenesIt 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 lawSeparationParenting disputesDomestic and family violenceCourt preparationTrauma-informed legal practiceReal-life courtroom experiences🎧 Available now on podcast platforms, YouTube, TikTok, Instagram and LinkedIn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  5. 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 abuseFinancial controlIsolation from support networksThreats and intimidationManipulationMonitoring and surveillancePsychological degradationFear-based dependencyThe 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 communicationThe importance of indirect and follow-up questioningAvoiding re-traumatisationCreating emotional safety during disclosureTaking detailed notes so victims don’t have to repeatedly relive traumaThe 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 retaliationThreats of self-harm by perpetratorsThreats involving childrenFinancial dependenceEmotional traumaSafety planningThe psychological paralysis caused by ongoing abuseThey 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 environmentEstablishing emergency safe wordsHolding important documents securelyProviding emotional support without judgmentAvoiding pressure or ultimatumsRespecting the victim survivor’s pace and safety assessmentThe 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 lawSeparationParenting disputesTrauma and recoveryDomestic and family violenceCourt processesRelationships and emotional wellbeing🎧 Available on podcast platforms, YouTube, TikTok, Instagram and LinkedIn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  6. May 17

    Facebook, TikTok & Family Court: The Social Media Mistakes Destroying Divorce Cases

    In this brutally honest and often darkly humorous episode of Dear Divorce Diary, Darren Mort (Family Law Barrister) and Joplin Higgins (Practising Family Lawyer) dive into one of the biggest modern dangers in separation and divorce proceedings — social media. From angry Facebook rants and passive-aggressive memes to dating app disasters, GoFundMe controversies and children being exposed to online conflict, this episode explores how social media behaviour can seriously damage: Parenting casesFamily law proceedingsPersonal credibilityMental healthChildren’s wellbeingDaz & Jop explain why courts are increasingly examining online behaviour under a microscope — and why one impulsive post can become devastating evidence in the courtroom. The episode delivers practical insight, cautionary tales and hard truths about how people sabotage themselves online during separation. “People Act Like Absolute Fools On Social Media” The Impact On ChildrenA major focus of the discussion is the devastating effect social media conflict has on children. The episode explores: Children reading posts about their parentsSchool bullying linked to family court disputesFriends and classmates discovering online conflictEmotional embarrassment and shameLong-term damage to parent-child relationshipsDaz shares examples of children being ridiculed at school after parents publicly posted inflammatory content online. The hosts repeatedly reinforce: The Family Court prioritises the best interests of children — and social media warfare rarely reflects that.Social Media As Court EvidenceDaz & Jop explain how family lawyers, barristers and Independent Children’s Lawyers routinely conduct “deep dives” into parties’ social media accounts. The episode highlights how courts may examine: Facebook postsTikTok videosInstagram storiesComments sectionsDating profilesGoFundMe campaignsText message labels and contact namesJop explains that social media can reveal: Personality traitsEmotional instabilityAggressionParenting attitudesDenigration of the other parentPoor judgmentKey Takeaways From This EpisodeSocial media posts regularly become evidence in family court proceedings.Children are often deeply impacted by parents’ online conflict.Passive-aggressive memes and public attacks can seriously damage credibility.Dating profiles and fundraising pages may create legal complications.Courts increasingly examine digital behaviour closely.Online conduct may influence parenting decisions and intervention order proceedings.Emotional “purging” online rarely helps legal outcomes.If you wouldn’t want a judge reading it aloud in court — don’t post it.About The HostsDarren Mort Family law barrister focused on parenting disputes, family violence and trauma-informed advocacy. Joplin Higgins Family lawyer, Director of Joplin Lawyers and advocate for trauma-informed family law practice. Listener AdviceIf you are currently navigating separation or family law proceedings: Avoid posting emotionally reactive content onlineNever involve children in online disputesAssume all posts may eventually be read in courtSeek legal advice before engaging publicly about proceedingsPrioritise your children’s emotional wellbeing above online validationJoin The ConversationHave a question or topic suggestion for Dear Divorce Diary? Connect with Darren and Joplin via: TikTokInstagramLinkedInYouTubePodcast platformsDM your questions, experiences or future topic ideas for upcoming episodes.Follow & SubscribeIf you’re navigating separation, parenting arrangements, or family court processes, Dear Divorce Diary offers real conversations and practical insights from experienced family law professionals. Follow, like, and subscribe to stay up to date with upcoming episodes featuring Darren Mort (Family Law Barrister) and Joplin Higgins (Family Law Solicitor). 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.

  7. May 15

    The Most Dangerous Red Flag: Strangulation, Domestic Violence & The Family Court Reality

    ⚠️ Trigger WarningThis episode contains detailed discussion surrounding: Domestic and family violenceStrangulation and chokingTrauma and coercive controlPsychological abuseCourt processes involving victim-survivorsListener discretion is strongly advised. Episode OverviewIn one of the most confronting and emotionally powerful episodes of Dear Divorce Diary, Darren Mort (Family Law Barrister) and Joplin Higgins (Practising Family Lawyer) tackle the deeply serious topic of strangulation within intimate relationships — and why it is considered one of the strongest indicators of future lethality in domestic violence situations. Drawing on their extensive experience within the family law and court systems, Daz and Jop unpack: How coercive and controlling behaviour escalates into physical violenceWhy strangulation is treated as an extreme risk factorThe devastating psychological and physiological impacts on victim-survivorsHow criminal and family law systems intersect in these mattersThe evidentiary challenges victims faceWhy trauma-informed legal support is criticalThe long-term impact family violence has on childrenThe urgent need for education, prevention and cultural changeThis episode is both educational and deeply human — offering insight into the realities faced by victim-survivors navigating separation, parenting and the legal system after severe domestic violence. Key Discussion Points:The Hidden Medical ConsequencesDaz and Jop discuss how many victim-survivors never seek immediate medical treatment following strangulation incidents — often due to fear, trauma or shock. They highlight serious medical consequences including: Acquired brain injuriesMemory loss and amnesiaOxygen deprivationEsophagus and airway injuriesLong-term neurological damageSevere psychological trauma and PTSDJop strongly encourages victim-survivors to seek urgent medical attention and documentation after any strangulation incident. Why Victims Often Don’t Report ImmediatelyOne of the most important parts of the episode examines why victim-survivors may delay reporting violence to police, doctors or the courts. The conversation explores: Fear of retaliationTrauma responsesEmotional paralysisConcern for childrenFinancial dependencyPsychological conditioning through coercive controlDaz explains how defence teams in court often scrutinise “contemporaneous reporting” — meaning whether incidents were immediately reported — despite the complex trauma responses victims experience. About The HostsDarren Mort Family law barrister, advocate and commentator focused on family violence, parenting matters and trauma-informed legal practice. Joplin Higgins Family lawyer, author and Director of Joplin Lawyers, recognised for her work in family violence advocacy and victim-survivor support. Join The ConversationIf this episode resonates with you, or you have questions about family law, coercive control, parenting, domestic violence or separation: Connect via InstagramReach out on TikTokMessage through LinkedInShare your topic suggestions for future episodesListener SupportIf this episode has raised concerns for you or someone you know, support is available through Australian domestic violence and crisis services. You are encouraged to seek assistance from: Call Triple Zero - Police in emergenciesDomestic violence support servicesTrauma-informed counsellorsMedical professionalsLegal practitioners experienced in family violence mattersFollow & SubscribeIf you’re navigating separation, parenting arrangements, or family court processes, Dear Divorce Diary offers real conversations and practical insights from experienced family law professionals. Follow, like, and subscribe to stay up to date with upcoming episodes featuring Darren Mort (Family Law Barrister) and Joplin Higgins (Family Law Solicitor). 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.

  8. May 15

    Extra-Marital Affairs, Betrayal and the Modern Divorce Process

    In this thought-provoking episode of Dear Divorce Diary, Darren Mort (Family Law Barrister) and Joplin Higgins (Practising Family Lawyer) tackle one of the most emotionally charged issues in family law: extra-marital affairs and their impact on separation and divorce. Although Australia operates under a no-fault divorce system, Daz and Jop explore why affairs can still play a significant role in the breakdown of relationships, family dynamics, parenting arrangements, and even allegations of coercive and controlling behaviour. The discussion moves beyond the traditional concept of infidelity and examines how affairs can become intertwined with: Emotional abusePsychological harmFamily violence dynamicsCoercive controlFamily contributions and relationship breakdown Key TakeawaysThis episode highlights the reality that while Australia has a no-fault divorce system, the emotional and behavioural consequences of affairs can still have profound effects on: FamiliesParenting relationshipsMental healthCourt proceedingsAllegations of coercive or emotionally abusive conductImportant themes explored include: Respect and honesty during relationship breakdownThe emotional impact of betrayalThe evolving role of coercive control in family lawHow modern technology is changing relationshipsThe importance of understanding the broader context surrounding infidelity For more conversations about separation, parenting, relationships and navigating the family law system, follow Dear Divorce Diary on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. New episodes explore complex family law topics with practical insights and real-world discussion designed to help listeners better understand the divorce process. Follow & SubscribeIf you’re navigating separation, parenting arrangements, or family court processes, Dear Divorce Diary offers real conversations and practical insights from experienced family law professionals. Follow, like, and subscribe to stay up to date with upcoming episodes featuring Darren Mort (Family Law Barrister) and Joplin Higgins (Family Law Solicitor). 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.

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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 dignityUnderstanding the family court processWhat to expect in mediationHow to co-parent respectfully and consistentlyFinancial and property settlement — explained in plain EnglishParenting arrangements after divorceHow to avoid court and resolve disputes constructivelyPractical tips for separating parentsChild-focused decision making and emotional awarenessWhen to involve a lawyer or barristerBetter 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.

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