An Introduction - about Joplin Higgins + Darren Mort

Episode 1: An Introduction – About Joplin Higgins & Darren MortIn this opening episode of Dear Divorce Diary, family law barrister Darren “Daz” Mort and family lawyer Joplin “Jop” Higgins introduce themselves, the purpose of the podcast, and the values that sit at the heart of their work. Drawing on decades spent “at the coalface” of the family law system, they explain why separation and divorce don’t have to be driven by conflict, fear or financial ruin.Daz and Jop speak candidly about the realities of family breakdown — the emotional toll, the cost, and the long-term impact on children — and why a child-focused mindset is critical, even when parents are hurting. They unpack the idea that while relationships may end, parenting never does, and explore how high conflict between adults can leave lasting scars on children well into adulthood.The episode places a strong emphasis on co-parenting: what it really means, why it’s hard, and how it can be done better. Through real courtroom insights and lived examples, they discuss avoiding unnecessary court battles, managing communication, revisiting parenting plans as children grow, and using practical tools like mediation, parenting courses and co-parenting apps to reduce conflict.Daz and Jop also tackle common flashpoints such as social media oversharing, chaotic changeovers, denigration of the other parent, third-party interference, and misunderstandings around child support — all with a mix of honesty, warmth and straight-talk.Ultimately, this episode sets the tone for the series: calm, practical guidance grounded in expertise, aimed at helping families navigate separation with dignity, protect children from conflict, and make decisions they can live with long after the legal process ends.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 separationAnd 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.