From Foster Care to Family Law - A Child Welfare Focus

What happens when you're accused of something you didn’t do—and the system treats you as guilty from the start? In this episode, Susan Chesnutt sits down with Maryland attorney Todd Mohink to expose the often unseen legal traps that destroy families. Together, they pull back the curtain on the devastating impact of false allegations, weaponized protective orders, and the courts' dangerous overreliance on flawed mental health evaluations. If you're navigating custody issues or just want to understand how these systems work, this episode will change how you see everything. You won’t leave this conversation the same.   In this episode, Susan and Todd Mohink discuss:  * False allegations and how they escalate custody disputes * Family law entanglement with criminal defense and Child Protective Services (CPS) * Legal disadvantages of accused parents during ongoing investigations * Emotional manipulation and parental alienation tactics * The systemic flaws in therapy, reunification, and court-appointed experts Key Takeaways: * Protective Orders and Silence (17:16): If criminal charges are pending, accused parents often cannot testify in civil court, making final protective orders almost a guarantee. * Therapists Without Oversight (28:23): Many therapists advising courts in custody cases are underqualified, have never met the other parent, and rely solely on biased narratives. * Irreparable Parent-Child Damage (36:50): Long-term no-contact periods caused by legal delays often irreparably harm the parent-child relationship, even when allegations are false. * Accusations Without Evidence (48:00): In sexual abuse allegations with no physical evidence, testimony alone often leads to loss of custody and reputational destruction, even without criminal charges. “Child Protective Services is the most powerful administrative agency in this state—even more than the state's attorney or the police.” - Todd Mohink    About Todd Mohink: Attorney Todd K. Mohink has more than 25 years of experience representing individuals and families in Maryland. He began gaining trial experience during law school when he was an intern with the Maryland Attorney General’s office and participated in the Civil Legal Clinic, a program that allowed law students to take part in trials. Today, Mr. Mohink is an accomplished attorney licensed in Maryland state and federal courts, and he has a published case in the Court of Special Appeals. He is a member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Bar Association and the Maryland Criminal Defense Attorneys’ Association. Connect with Todd Mohink: Website: https://www.mohinklaw.com/ [https://www.mohinklaw.com/] Phone: 410-766-0113 Email: todd@mohinklaw.com [todd@mohinklaw.com] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-mohink-8a7b1116/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-mohink-8a7b1116/] Connect with Susan:  Website: https://www.thechesnuttlawfirm.com/ [https://www.thechesnuttlawfirm.com/] Podcast: https://www.thechesnuttlawfirm.com/podcasts/ [https://www.thechesnuttlawfirm.com/podcasts/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-chesnutt-27077bb9/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-chesnutt-27077bb9/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechesnuttlawfirm/ [https://www.instagram.com/thechesnuttlawfirm/] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBwfp_IVpeX-YHKpxZ5L0g [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBwfp_IVpeX-YHKpxZ5L0g] Avvo: https://www.avvo.com/attorneys/32960-fl-susan-chesnutt-3330241.html [https://www.avvo.com/attorneys/32960-fl-susan-chesnutt-3330241.html]

What if divorce could be not just less painful, but genuinely transformative? In this episode, Susan Chesnutt sits down with Beth Proudfoot, a seasoned child therapist, parenting coach, and collaborative divorce expert, to explore what it means to truly lead your family through crisis. You'll hear how reframing roles, tuning into your child's unspoken needs, and building communication skills can help you show up with more clarity and compassion—even in the hardest moments. This is about more than surviving divorce—it's about choosing growth, respect, and resilience. Stay with us to the end—you’ll walk away with insights that could change how you parent, partner, and lead.   In this episode, Susan and Beth Proudfoot discuss:  * Navigating emotional and parental challenges during divorce. * The evolving roles and expectations of co-parents post-separation * The structure and benefits of collaborative divorce processes * Parenting strategies rooted in communication and leadership * The often-overlooked emotional insights and needs of children during family transitions Key Takeaways: * Learning Conflict-Resolution Skills Through Divorce (10:02): Collaborative divorce empowers couples to solve problems and communicate more effectively, reducing long-term conflict even in the face of significant life changes like job loss. * Children Crave Peace More Than Preference (17:15): Children are most hurt not by the decisions of divorce, but by ongoing parental conflict; a neutral child specialist can help refocus parents on their kids’ true needs. * Unpacking Gender Roles in Post-Divorce Parenting (24:03): Traditional gender roles in parenting and financial responsibility often create silent resentments, which must be acknowledged and restructured post-divorce. * Why Rewards and Punishments Fail (55:22): Reward and punishment systems are short-term parenting fixes; leadership by example and fostering intrinsic motivation yield more lasting behavior change in children. “To be intentionally the kind of leader that you admire when you are being the leader of your children... that takes a little work.” - Beth Proudfoot    About Beth Proudfoot: Beth Proudfoot is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 35 years of experience, specializing in collaborative divorce coaching, child advocacy, and parent education. As the Executive Director and founder of Child & Family Counseling Group, Inc. in San Jose, she helps families navigate divorce with dignity and respect, focusing on the best outcomes for children. Beth is a trained mediator and collaborative communications coach, passionate about fostering healthy co-parenting relationships. She is also co-author of The Magic of Positive Parenting and a sought-after presenter on positive discipline and effective parenting strategies. Connect with Beth Proudfoot: Website: https://www.childfamilygroup.com/ [https://www.childfamilygroup.com/] & https://www.bethproudfoot.com/ [https://www.bethproudfoot.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-proudfoot-82b9835/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-proudfoot-82b9835/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beth.proudfoot1 [https://www.facebook.com/beth.proudfoot1] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/proudfootbeth/ [https://www.instagram.com/proudfootbeth/] Connect with Susan:  Website: https://www.thechesnuttlawfirm.com/ [https://www.thechesnuttlawfirm.com/] Podcast: https://www.thechesnuttlawfirm.com/podcasts/ [https://www.thechesnuttlawfirm.com/podcasts/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-chesnutt-27077bb9/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-chesnutt-27077bb9/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechesnuttlawfirm/ [https://www.instagram.com/thechesnuttlawfirm/] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBwfp_IVpeX-YHKpxZ5L0g [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBwfp_IVpeX-YHKpxZ5L0g] Avvo: https://www.avvo.com/attorneys/32960-fl-susan-chesnutt-3330241.html [https://www.avvo.com/attorneys/32960-fl-susan-chesnutt-3330241.html]

What happens when a criminal defense attorney decides his job isn't to win cases, but to transform lives? In this episode, Susan Chesnutt sits down with Georgia defense attorney James Dutton to expose the unseen consequences of our justice system, from broken paperwork and false charges to billion-dollar surveillance schemes hiding behind school safety. But this conversation isn’t just about problems — it’s about purpose. James shares how compassion, community, and a no-nonsense approach to second chances can disrupt cycles of addiction, injustice, and incarceration.  If you’ve ever felt like the system isn’t working for you, your family, or your clients, this episode will challenge what you accept and inspire what you expect.   In this episode, Susan and James Dutton discuss:  * The flaws and unintended consequences of automated traffic enforcement systems * How the criminal justice system mishandles mental health and addiction * The misuse of criminal charges in family and custody disputes * A holistic, community-based approach to criminal defense and rehabilitation * Systemic failures in due process, notifications, and prosecutorial discretion Key Takeaways: * Protect Yourself from Administrative Errors (11:22): Always confirm court dates in writing and immediately address any notification issues to prevent unintended license suspensions or arrest warrants. * Challenge False Allegations Immediately (27:45): Document every interaction in high-conflict situations and involve legal representation early to prevent malicious accusations from derailing your personal and professional life. * Probation Without Treatment Fails Addicts (45:30): Courts often offer probation to first-time meth users thinking it's lenient, but without addiction treatment, it's a fast track to relapse and re-incarceration, so always push for mandatory rehab or diversion programs. * Demand Due Process in Automated Enforcement (1:05:15): When facing traffic camera citations, immediately request a hearing, submit affidavits challenging the ticket, and scrutinize the evidence to protect your legal rights. “You're a lifeboat for others. But right now, there's holes in the lifeboat. You can't pull other people into a sinking lifeboat. You have to fix yourself; then you can fix others.” - James Dutton    About James Dutton: James Dutton is a dedicated criminal defense attorney and partner at Dutton & Dutton Law Firm, LLC in Griffin, Georgia. Born and raised in Griffin, he is deeply committed to serving his local community, bringing empathy and understanding to every case. With a strong academic background and extensive experience as a public defender, James has successfully represented over 1,600 clients, advocating for those who might be misunderstood or overlooked. Fluent in five languages and active in numerous community organizations, he combines legal expertise with a genuine desire to make a positive difference. Connect with James Dutton: Website: https://www.duttonlawga.com/ [https://www.duttonlawga.com/] Phone: 770-229-5959 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jadutton/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jadutton/] Connect with Susan:  Website: https://www.thechesnuttlawfirm.com/ [https://www.thechesnuttlawfirm.com/] Podcast: https://www.thechesnuttlawfirm.com/podcasts/ [https://www.thechesnuttlawfirm.com/podcasts/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-chesnutt-27077bb9/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-chesnutt-27077bb9/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechesnuttlawfirm/ [https://www.instagram.com/thechesnuttlawfirm/] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBwfp_IVpeX-YHKpxZ5L0g [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBwfp_IVpeX-YHKpxZ5L0g] Avvo: https://www.avvo.com/attorneys/32960-fl-susan-chesnutt-3330241.html [https://www.avvo.com/attorneys/32960-fl-susan-chesnutt-3330241.html]

What if your biggest source of fear could become your greatest power? In this episode, Noel Thompson shares how he turned decades of personal struggle with anxiety and depression into a transformative program that helps others do the same. With a unique approach blending coaching, comic book storytelling, and mental fitness tools, Noel offers more than just insight—he gives you a strategy.  Whether you’re navigating your own mental health journey or supporting someone else’s, you’ll walk away with a deeper understanding and renewed confidence. This conversation isn’t just informative—it’s empowering.   In this episode, Susan and Noel Thompson discuss:  * Exploring the personal and societal impact of anxiety and depression * Reframing mental health through creative educational tools * Empowering youth and adults with self-coaching strategies * Understanding the deep mind-body connection in emotional regulation * Honest storytelling and relatable education Key Takeaways: * The “Recognize, Reset, Rewire” framework enables individuals to reprogram their minds and shift from negative thought cycles to empowerment through consistent practice. * Panic attacks can be managed through intentional breathing techniques and mental reframing, and they never last longer than ten minutes. * “What if” thinking can be flipped from fear-driven hypotheticals to confidence-boosting affirmations by writing them down and actively converting them into believable positive scenarios. * The comic book-style program, combined with explainer videos and planned interactive features, makes mental health education accessible, engaging, and actionable for all ages. Highlights: 0:00:00 From Pain to Power: You always feel anxiety and depression, but once you learn the tools, you learn to recognize, reset, rewire, you can rewire yourself. 0:05:59 Ending the Stigma, Empowering Youth: It’s like working out. It’s your mind is a muscle, right? And you’re not embarrassed to tell people you’re working out or trying to lose weight. You shouldn’t be embarrassed about your mental well-being. 0:15:06 Visualizing Fear & Rewiring the Mind: Fear is interesting. It helps to visualize, put visuals to scary thoughts and fears and of the what ifs and all those different things.  0:39:56 Flipping the What Ifs & Facing Scary Thoughts: Recognize your negative “What if thought” and change it to a positive thought. You can't just change it to a positive thought that's unbelievable. You have to take time and change it to a positive thought that is doable. “Once you learn the tools that you need to control your body, your mind, your chemicals, and your spirit, then you can overcome anything.” - Noel Thompson    About Noel Thompson:  Noel Thompson is the Director of The Power of Anxiety and Depression, where he empowers young people with actionable tools to overcome mental health challenges while working to eliminate the stigma surrounding them. A seasoned creative director and visual storyteller, Noel has spent over two decades leading DPro, a media production company known for crafting compelling content that connects deeply with audiences. His unique blend of technical expertise and narrative vision has made him a sought-after producer in both commercial and mission-driven media. Noel’s passion for merging creativity with purpose drives everything he builds—on screen and in real life. Connect with Noel Thompson: Website: https://thepowerad.com/ [https://thepowerad.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noel-thompson-4838566/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/noel-thompson-4838566/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551279402745 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551279402745] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepoweraandd/ [https://www.instagram.com/thepoweraandd/] Connect with Susan:  Website: https://www.thechesnuttlawfirm.com/ [https://www.thechesnuttlawfirm.com/] Podcast: https://www.thechesnuttlawfirm.com/podcasts/ [https://www.thechesnuttlawfirm.com/podcasts/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-chesnutt-27077bb9/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-chesnutt-27077bb9/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechesnuttlawfirm/ [https://www.instagram.com/thechesnuttlawfirm/] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBwfp_IVpeX-YHKpxZ5L0g [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBwfp_IVpeX-YHKpxZ5L0g] Avvo: https://www.avvo.com/attorneys/32960-fl-susan-chesnutt-3330241.html [https://www.avvo.com/attorneys/32960-fl-susan-chesnutt-3330241.html]

In the turbulent world of high-conflict divorces, two seasoned attorneys pull back the curtain on family law's most challenging battlefield. Sandra Fava and Susan Chesnutt reveal the hidden emotional landmines that devastate families, offering raw insights into protecting children, managing conflict, and navigating the treacherous path of separation with compassion and strategy. In this episode, Susan and Benjamin discuss:  * High Conflict Divorce Dynamics * Impact of Divorce on Children * Importance of Attorney-Client Communication * Managing Emotional Challenges in Family Law * Resources for Healing and Moving Forward Highlights: 0:00:36 High-Conflict Divorce Landscape:  Family law isn't just about legal proceedings; it's a deeply personal journey through emotional minefields.  0:03:47 Defining High-Conflict Dynamics:  When divorce transforms into a battleground of unresolvable anger and control, every disagreement becomes a potential explosive point of contention, escalating tensions beyond rational resolution. 0:27:49 Children's Emotional Vulnerability:  Kids are perceptive beings who internalize parental conflicts far more deeply than adults realize and protecting their psychological well-being requires transparent, age-appropriate communication and mutual parental respect. 0:40:23 Healing and Personal Growth:  Trauma doesn't disappear; it requires intentional, ongoing work and supportive resources.  0:50:30 Strategic Long-Term Perspective:  High-conflict situations demand realistic expectations and proactive planning beyond immediate emotional reactions, and making decisions that serve both short-term needs and future well-being is crucial for sustainable resolution. “You can only control your response. Once you embrace that, your stress levels will start to slow down.”  - Sandra Fava Esq. About Sandra Fava Esq.: Sandra Fava is the founder and managing attorney at Fava Law, a family law practice dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal counsel to individuals and families in transition. Recently recognized as a "Woman to Watch" in Morris & Essex Magazine, Sandra brings extensive experience, in-depth knowledge, and a commitment to finding tailored solutions to her clients' unique needs. With a career dedicated exclusively to the practice of family law, Sandra has successfully represented clients in a wide range of matters, including divorce (high net worth), child custody, spousal support (executive compensation),  property division, debt allocation, domestic violence, appellate matters, mediation and arbitration, and high conflict matters. She understands that these issues are deeply personal and often emotionally charged, and works closely with her clients to develop personalized strategies that prioritize their individual goals and well-being. Connect with Sandra: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandrafava/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandrafava/]  Website: https://www.favalawnj.com/ [https://www.favalawnj.com/]  Connect with Susan:  Website: https://www.thechesnuttlawfirm.com/ [https://www.thechesnuttlawfirm.com/] Podcast: https://www.thechesnuttlawfirm.com/podcasts/ [https://www.thechesnuttlawfirm.com/podcasts/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-chesnutt-27077bb9/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-chesnutt-27077bb9/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechesnuttlawfirm/ [https://www.instagram.com/thechesnuttlawfirm/] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBwfp_IVpeX-YHKpxZ5L0g [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBwfp_IVpeX-YHKpxZ5L0g] Avvo: https://www.avvo.com/attorneys/32960-fl-susan-chesnutt-3330241.html [https://www.avvo.com/attorneys/32960-fl-susan-chesnutt-3330241.html]