In this deeply insightful episode of Dear Divorce Diaries, family law barrister Darren “Daz” Mort and solicitor Joplin “Jop” Higgins tackle one of the most emotionally charged and misunderstood topics in family law: the role of grandparents after separation.

Prompted by a wave of listener questions, Daz and Jop unpack the common misconception that grandparents have “rights” in the family law system — and explain why, legally, all rights belong to the child.

What grandparents do have, however, are responsibilities, and in many cases a profoundly important role in a child’s emotional stability, routine and sense of belonging.

The conversation explores:

• When and how grandparents can seek time with their grandchildren
• Why courts often support ongoing grandparent relationships
• The impact of separation, anger and grief on extended family bonds
• When grandparents should consider mediation or court applications
• The long-term consequences of cutting children off from loving grandparents

Through real-world examples — from after-school care to funerals, cultural traditions and long-distance relationships — this episode highlights how decisions made in moments of hurt can echo well into a child’s future.

As always, the focus remains firmly on the child’s best interests, encouraging parents and grandparents alike to look beyond conflict, prioritise perspective, and keep their eyes on the road ahead rather than the rear-view mirror.

A must-listen for grandparents, parents, and anyone navigating separation with children involved.

Why This Episode Matters

Whether someone is just contemplating separation or deep into negotiations, this episode offers a grounded, compassionate look at what the process actually feels like — beyond forms and courtrooms. The blend of legal insight and emotional awareness helps listeners feel equipped, not overwhelmed, by the road ahead.

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.

In Episode 6 of Dear Divorce Diaries, Darren “Daz” Mort and Joplin “Jop” Higgins dive into a topic that is often misunderstood and frequently misused in family law — trauma-informed practice.

Daz & Jop explain why this term is not just a trendy buzzword, and why many lawyers and judicial officers may not truly understand what it means in practice. Joplin, a recognised expert in the field and author of a book on trauma-informed practice, explains how lawyers and courts must ensure they do not re-traumatise clients during the legal process.

The episode explores the practical application of trauma-informed approaches in family law. Joplin describes strategies used in her firm to create a safe environment, including:

• weighted blankets and heat packs
• stress balls
• massage chairs
• structured communication strategies (urgent vs non-urgent emails)
• pre-conference forms to avoid repeatedly asking clients to recount traumatic incidents

They discuss how domestic violence and coercive behaviour are present in many family law cases, and why it’s essential to handle information sensitively. The hosts also highlight how the legal process can unintentionally cause ongoing trauma, especially when clients are repeatedly asked to relive painful events.

Darren highlights the court’s trauma-informed initiatives, including the court dog program, which supports parties and children through the process. They also discuss the need for lawyers to be aware of clients’ capacity to give instructions, and how trauma can affect memory and communication.

Joplin emphasises that trauma-informed practice is not just about empathy — it is about creating safety, stability, and clarity so clients can participate effectively in their case. The episode ends with a powerful reminder that trauma-informed practice is a professional responsibility, not a marketing term, and clients should expect it from their family lawyer.

Key Topics Covered:

• What “trauma-informed practice” actually means
• Why it’s not just a buzzword
• How legal processes can re-traumatise clients
• Practical strategies in law firms to reduce stress
• Why communication strategy matters (urgent vs non-urgent)
• How domestic violence and coercive behaviour impact cases
• Court initiatives like the therapy dog program
• The importance of safe client environments
• Trauma’s impact on clients’ capacity to give instructions
• Why trauma-informed practice is essential in family law

Why This Episode Matters

Whether someone is just contemplating separation or deep into negotiations, this episode offers a grounded, compassionate look at what the process actually feels like — beyond forms and courtrooms. The blend of legal insight and emotional awareness helps listeners feel equipped, not overwhelmed, by the road ahead.

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.

In Episode 5 of Dear Divorce Diaries, Darren “Daz” Mort and Joplin “Jop” Higgins tackle one of the most important decisions people make during separation: how to choose the right family lawyer.

The episode opens with the hosts explaining the podcast rules: they can’t provide direct legal advice, but they can discuss themes based on listener questions. The conversation is driven by questions submitted via TikTok and Instagram, focusing on the core issue of selecting a lawyer who will genuinely support you through the family law process.

Joplin explains that the relationship between client and lawyer is crucial. Separation is emotionally draining and often financially stressful, so you need a lawyer who is not only skilled but also someone you can work with for potentially two years or more. The hosts emphasise the importance of chemistry and trust, and encourage listeners to trust their instincts if a lawyer doesn’t feel like the right fit.

They discuss how to assess a lawyer’s suitability, including:

• Specialist expertise (trusts, businesses, domestic violence, trauma-informed practice)
• Experience and practical knowledge (not just “talking the talk”)
• The lawyer’s ability to manage complex emotional and mental health issues
• Firm structure and how cases are handled day-to-day
• Who will actually work on the file (junior lawyers, paralegals, support staff)

Daz highlights the importance of understanding who is handling the case when the principal lawyer is in court. He warns that many clients feel let down when they are left dealing with a junior solicitor they barely know, and stresses the need for transparency from the outset.

The hosts also discuss the practical side of legal fees, explaining:

• Cost agreements and what they cover
• Trust accounts and payment structures
• Fixed fees vs hourly rates
• The importance of understanding what is included in any fixed fee package
• The contractual nature of cost agreements and what happens if the case becomes more complex

The episode concludes with a reminder that choosing a lawyer is one of the most significant decisions in the family law process. The hosts encourage listeners to ask questions, seek clarity, and always trust their instincts.

Key Topics Covered:

• Why choosing a lawyer is the most important decision in family law
• Importance of personality fit and trust
• Long-term nature of family law cases (often 2+ years)
• Need for specialist expertise (domestic violence, trusts, business)
• Trauma-informed practice and social science knowledge
• Firm structure and who handles your case
• Importance of knowing support staff (secretary, accounts, juniors)
• Costs and cost agreements explained
• Fixed fee vs hourly rate
• How to avoid being trapped in the wrong legal relationship

Why This Episode Matters

Whether someone is just contemplating separation or deep into negotiations, this episode offers a grounded, compassionate look at what the process actually feels like — beyond forms and courtrooms. The blend of legal insight and emotional awareness helps listeners feel equipped, not overwhelmed, by the road ahead.

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.