Children First Family Law - Transforming how families navigate the challenging landscape of divorce.

007: Understanding Family Law from the Seat of the Bench with Judge Robert Lung

In this episode of the Children First Family Law Podcast, Krista sits down with the Honorable Judge Robert Lung to explore the nuances of family law. With decades of experience as a district court judge in Colorado, Judge Lung offers invaluable perspectives on how parents can work together to shape their children's futures. This episode emphasizes parental cooperation in making decisions about their children's lives rather than relying on a judge who lacks personal insight into their circumstances.
Judge Lung discusses critical issues such as human trafficking, childhood trauma, and resilience. Drawing from his extensive work with various professionals, including military, medical, and law enforcement communities, Judge Lung underscores his commitment to these pressing topics through his roles on significant councils addressing human trafficking.
You’ll hear Judge Lung recount his path from law school in Ohio to his current position in Colorado. Krista and Judge Lung highlight the influence of mentors and personal stories, reflecting on how focusing on children's well-being in family law cases can lead to better outcomes. They also emphasize the empowerment of parents to reach agreements during divorce proceedings, placing the best interests of their children at the forefront.
The episode delves into the intricacies of co-parenting, parental rights, and the effects of trauma on child advocacy. Central themes include conversations about parenting time, challenges for non-offending parents, and the role of judicial input in enhancing the family court system. Judge Lung reiterates maintaining a nurturing environment for families, stressing mentorship, open communication, and continuous improvement efforts by the Colorado Judicial Branch.
Join us as we navigate these critical issues with Judge Robert Lung and discover ways to foster a nurturing environment for families facing family law challenges.
In this episode, you will hear:
The importance of parental cooperation in family law to avoid judicial decisions by strangers
Judge Robert Lung's career journey and experiences in Colorado's family court system
Trauma awareness, human trafficking, and child advocacy
Empowerment of parents to reach agreements in divorce proceedings
Challenges of co-parenting, parental rights, and maintaining a supportive environment for children
Continuous improvement in Colorado's family courts
Anecdotes highlighting informed decision-making and the pitfalls of unnecessary litigation
 
Resources from this Episode
www.childrenfirstfamilylaw.com
All states have different laws; be sure you are checking out your state laws specifically surrounding divorce. Krista is a licensed attorney in Colorado and Wyoming but is not providing through this podcast legal advice. Please be sure to seek independent legal counsel in your area for your specific situation. 
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Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

006: What to Look for in Therapeutic Resources for Your Children with Psychologist Dr. Kathleen McNamara

Join us for an insightful discussion with Dr. Kathleen McNamara, a seasoned psychologist with nearly 40 years of experience, as she shares her expertise at the intersection of family law and psychology.
In this episode of Children First Family Law, we delve into the intricacies of child-parent relationships, emphasizing the need to separate relationship issues from parenting logistics. Dr. McNamara's extensive career, spanning academia, clinical practice, and policy-making, enriches our exploration of child-centered strategies that place children's needs at the forefront in legal contexts.
We examine te impact of recent legislative changes and the complexities surrounding terms like alienation and gaslighting. Dr. McNamara advocates for moving beyond labels to focus on specific behaviors and their effects on family dynamics. The episode also highlights Kayden's Law and the evolving role of best-interests attorneys – called Child Legal Representatives in Colorado – discussing the balance between safeguarding children and honoring parental rights.
Throughout the conversation, we address the challenges of high-conflict divorces, stressing the importance of a stable parenting schedule and the guidance of experienced therapists. By encouraging communication, conflict resolution, and emotional resilience, we aim to assist families in transitioning from disputes to effective co-parenting.
Our discussion, filled with expert advice and personal experiences, aims to inspire listeners to adopt child-focused approaches in the complex realm of family law.
In this episode, you will hear:
Exploring the intersection of family law and psychology with Dr. Kathleen McNamara
Child-centered strategies and their importance in family dynamics
The impact of recent legislative changes, such as Kayden's Law, on family law
Challenges and strategies for managing high-conflict divorces and parenting schedules
The role of language and behavior-focused approaches in understanding family dynamics
The importance of emotional resilience, communication, and conflict resolution in co-parenting
Insights into child advocacy, family rights, and the evolving role of best-interests attorneys – called child legal representatives in Colorado
Resources from this Episode
Dr. Kathleen McNamara’s website: kathleenmcnamaraphd.com
www.childrenfirstfamilylaw.com
All states have different laws; be sure you are checking out your state laws specifically surrounding divorce. Krista is a licensed attorney in Colorado and Wyoming but is not providing through this podcast legal advice. Please be sure to seek independent legal counsel in your area for your specific situation. 
Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

005: Insight into Family Law with Judge Angela Arkin

Join us for a conversation with the Hon. (Ret.) Angela Arkin, a former Colorado judge and current thought leader in family law with a wealth of experience to share. Judge Arkin provides her perspective based on her decades of experience regarding ways to improve access to justice for families without resources to hire lawyers and how to better advocate for children.
 
Judge Arkin dives deep into the heart-wrenching complexities judges face in family law, especially when it comes to cases involving children. We explore the intricate process of discerning the truth in these emotionally charged situations and the critical role of mental health and socioeconomic factors. 
 
Celebrate Judge Arkin's profound impact on the legal community and her tireless dedication to training future generations of lawyers and judges. This episode provides invaluable advice for judges, lawyers, and parents alike, emphasizing the crucial need to prioritize children's wellbeing in all family law proceedings.
 
In this episode, you will hear:
Judge Angela Arkin's journey from Georgia to Colorado in family law
Challenges and responsibilities judges face in high-conflict divorce cases, particularly involving children
The impact of socioeconomic and mental health issues on family dynamics and court decisions
Importance of mentorship and training for judges and lawyers to prioritize children's best interests in family law proceedings
Issues regarding access to justice in family law cases in which parents cannot afford attorneys
Advice for parents, lawyers, and judicial officers
 
Resources from this Episode:
www.childrenfirstfamilylaw.com
Guest’s website - https://jaginc.com/arkin-angela/
All states have different laws; be sure you are checking out your state laws specifically surrounding divorce. Krista is a licensed attorney in Colorado and Wyoming but is not providing through this podcast legal advice. Please be sure to seek independent legal counsel in your area for your specific situation. 
Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

004: Peaceful Approaches to Family Law Conflict - Mediation and Other Peacekeeping Solutions

Join Krista Nash as she delves into family law, revealing how to navigate divorce and legal disputes with compassion and clarity.
 
In this episode, Krista uncovers the financial incentives that can lead attorneys to favor contentious litigation over peaceful resolutions, potentially to the detriment of families. Discover the transformative impact of choosing legal representation that prioritizes amicable solutions and the well-being of children over prolonged court battles.
 
Krista shares her expertise in mediation and negotiation, illustrating how an attorney with a mediator's heart can be pivotal during divorce proceedings. Explore the benefits of mediation, from crafting comprehensive settlement documents to utilizing virtual platforms to reduce tension. Learn about private judges, parenting coordinators, and decision-makers' roles and how these professionals can help resolve disputes outside the courtroom.
 
Upcoming guests The Hon. (Ret.) Angela Arkin, The Hon. Robert Lung, and psychologist Dr. Kathleen McNamara will offer insights into the advantages of staying out of court and the effects of family law on children. Krista emphasizes transparency and integrity in legal practice, urging a move away from incentive-driven litigation.
 
In this episode, you will hear:
Financial incentives in family law and their impact on amicable solutions.  
Importance of selecting attorneys with a mediator's heart for divorce proceedings.  
Benefits and complexities of mediation, including virtual platforms and comprehensive settlement documents.  
Role of private judges, parenting coordinators, and decision-makers in non-adversarial resolutions.  
Cooperative law and its advantages in achieving peaceful, legal outcomes.  
Insights from judicial perspectives on staying out of court for family disputes.  
Impact of family law on children and the significance of maintaining peaceful resolutions.
 
Resources from this Episode
www.childrenfirstfamilylaw.com
All states have different laws; be sure you are checking out your state laws specifically surrounding divorce. Krista is a licensed attorney in Colorado and Wyoming but is not providing through this podcast legal advice. Please be sure to seek independent legal counsel in your area for your specific situation. 
Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

003: An Introduction to Child Advocacy

Discover tools to navigate the waters of family law with a focus on child advocacy and the nuances of our legal system. Join Krista Nash as we unravel the complexities of divorce and custody proceedings, championing a child-centered approach that prioritizes the well-being of children.  We'll dissect the difference between dependency and neglect cases and domestic relations, emphasizing the crucial role state intervention plays in safeguarding children's safety in D&N cases but the need for parents and professionals to focus on children’s best interests in the family law world.
Gain clarity on the various roles within child advocacy such as parenting plan evaluators and best-interests attorneys. These are called different names in different states – for example, in Colorado, there are  Child and Family Investigators (CFIs), Parental Responsibilities Evaluators (PREs), and Child's Legal Representatives (CLRs). We'll break down their functions, from CFIs' short-term assessments to the comprehensive evaluations conducted by PREs, and dissect their associated costs and required training. 
Explore the transformative power of effective co-parenting to foster better futures for children post-divorce.  We'll also highlight alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation and arbitration as valuable tools to minimize conflict and encourage peace. Together, we'll call upon parents, judges, and attorneys to unite in support of children during these challenging family transitions, with a promise of future episodes offering expert advice on navigating family law.
In this episode, you will hear:
Focus on child-centered approaches in family law, especially during divorce and custody proceedings
Overview of roles and processes in family law investigations, including CFIs, PREs, and CLRs
Importance of effective co-parenting and minimizing conflict for children's well-being
Exploration of alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation and arbitration
Emphasis on universal principles of child advocacy that transcend state lines
Resources from this Episode
www.childrenfirstfamilylaw.com
All states have different laws; be sure you are checking out your state laws specifically surrounding divorce. Krista is a licensed attorney in Colorado and Wyoming but is not providing through this podcast legal advice. Please be sure to seek independent legal counsel in your area for your specific situation. 
Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

002: How to Approach Divorce and Do It Well

Discover the keys to navigating family law with a focus on the well-being of children and the power of peaceful resolutions. Explore how choosing the right attorney, one who prioritizes negotiation and settlement, can transform the divorce process. We'll learn insights from experienced family law attorney, Krista Nash, who offers a roadmap for those embarking on this challenging journey. Our discussion sheds light on the financial intricacies akin to splitting up a business, the importance of transparency, and the need for a comprehensive view of marital assets and debts.
Next, we look into the complexities of crafting a parenting plan, focusing on major decisions that can become contentious. We'll analyze the components of a well-drafted parenting plan, including communication strategies and non-disparagement clauses. By understanding the intricacies of separation agreements, including assets, debt, child support, and alimony, we can work toward minimizing conflicts. It's all about fostering cooperation and ensuring fair settlements, enabling a smoother path forward for families.
In this episode, you will hear:
Importance of choosing an attorney who prioritizes negotiation and peaceful resolutions in family law.
An introduction to navigating the financial intricacies of divorce, including assets, debts, and potential financial abuse.
Benefits of creative problem-solving over court litigation for resolving family disputes and retaining control.
Emphasizing dignity and respect in divorce proceedings, with a focus on the well-being of children and preservation of peace for long-term, effective co-parenting
Resources from this Episode
www.childrenfirstfamilylaw.com
All states have different laws; be sure you are checking out your state laws specifically surrounding divorce. Krista is a licensed attorney in Colorado and Wyoming but is not providing through this podcast legal advice. Please be sure to seek independent legal counsel in your area for your specific situation. 
Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

001: Get to Know Your Host Krista Nash: A Journey into Family Law Child Advocacy

In this introductory episode of the Children First Family Law Podcast, host Krista Nash takes listeners through her journey from journalism to becoming an accomplished family law attorney and nationally recognized child advocate. Raised in Colorado, Krista initially pursued a career in journalism, graduating from Northwestern University. She worked as a newspaper reporter, but growing disillusionment with the industry's ethical challenges led to career changes and ultimately a specialty in family law and children’s issues. 
The episode delves into significant milestones in Krista's life, including meeting her husband in 1995, moving back to Colorado in 2001, and managing career shifts in public relations while raising her children. A pivotal lawsuit against her husband's employer became a turning point, propelling her toward law school. Balancing the demands of legal education with motherhood, Krista's experiences enriched her perspective and deepened her commitment to putting children first in the messy area of family law. 
Krista shares her motivations for founding Children First Family Law, emphasizing the importance of problem-solving and the limitations of litigation. She began this podcast to fill what she sees as a serious gap in the discourse around family law issues. With vast numbers of people – and their children –  experiencing family breakdown, this podcast serves as a platform for diverse voices aimed at helping individuals navigate through the complexities of family law and how best to help their children flourish The podcast also intends to challenge all professionals – lawyers, judges, counselors, supervisors, legislators, and others – to do better by children.
In this episode, you will hear:
Krista Nash's journey from journalism to family law advocacy
Disillusionment with journalism leading to career pivot
Transition from public relations to law school
Challenges and rewards of balancing legal education and motherhood
Founding Children First Family Law and commitment to problem-solving
Encouragement for parents to focus on their children
Challenge for family law professionals to place a higher value on children’s best interests
Resources from this Episode
www.childrenfirstfamilylaw.com
All states have different laws; be sure you are checking out your state laws specifically surrounding divorce. Krista is a licensed attorney in Colorado and Wyoming but is not providing through this podcast legal advice. Please be sure to seek independent legal counsel in your area for your specific situation. 
Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Welcome to the Children First Family Law Podcast

Welcome to *Children First Family Law*, a podcast dedicated to transforming the way families navigate the challenging landscape of divorce. In an industry too often focused on litigation, financial battles, and a war-like approach, we advocate for a radical shift in priorities—putting the well-being of children at the forefront. Join us as we explore how to handle divorce in a way that protects children from the collateral damage of parental conflict and legal battles. We offer resources, insights, and expert advice to help parents understand how to manage divorce without destroying their children's future. By highlighting the flaws in the current system and providing a roadmap for a more compassionate approach, we aim to become thought leaders in this space, calling for change within the professional landscape of family law. We’ll discuss crucial topics like collaborative and amicable divorce, parental alienation, and navigating the complexities of domestic violence and child abuse within the legal system. Through candid conversations and expert guidance, *Children First Family Law* equips families to emerge from the brokenness of divorce with their children's well-being intact—just like a beautiful stained glass window crafted from shattered pieces. If you’re asking yourself, "How can I ensure my children aren’t destroyed by my divorce?" or "Why does my lawyer always push for litigation?" this podcast is for you. Tune in, and let us guide you toward a healthier, more hopeful future for your family.