92: How protected are vulnerable mums in the courts? With Daniel Ryan

In this episode of Revolutionise your podcast, Heather talks to Daniel Ryan to explore how vulnerable mums are treated in family court, what the court recognises as domestic abuse, and the stark difference between criminal court and family court. Daniel explains coercive and controlling behaviour under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, the burden of proof on the balance of probabilities, and why hearings can feel like a second ordeal. We discuss safeguarding children, emotional preparation, and how to build practical and therapeutic support through the process.

Key Takeaways:
Domestic abuse in law, courts recognise physical, verbal, emotional, psychological, sexual, and financial abuse, with coercive and controlling behaviour now widely acknowledged.

Burden of proof, criminal court needs beyond reasonable doubt, family court decides on the balance of probability, one judge, no jury, which makes proving allegations complex for traumatised mums.

Surviving the process, hearings can retraumatise, plan support early, gather your tribe, protect your children with clear, age appropriate communication, and build steadiness between hearings.

About your host:
Heather has been working in mental and emotional health for over 30 years. First as an Art Psychotherapist then as a Counsellor and Couples Therapist. She now specialises in love and relationship coaching.

Heather is a qualified Calling in “The One” and “Conscious Uncoupling” coach, having been trained and mentored by Katherine Woodward Thomas. In addition, she is a long-term accredited member of The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, Health and Care Professions Council registered and a member of The British Association of Art

About Daniel:
Dan is 'That Family Law Guy'. He has worked extensively in both the Family Court and the Civil Court, and has received several awards recognising his work.

Dan is a Professional McKenzie Friend and his approach is empathetic and sensitive and his view is that our clients do not come to us in order to leave without tangible change.