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

019: Navigating Divorce Through Sobriety - An Addicted Father’s Story

Personal issues such as addiction can jeopardize parental custody, but through hard work, dedication, and earning back trust, it is possible to co-parent with an ex-partner successfully.
On this episode of Children First Family Law, Krista sits down with Mike, a former client and recovering addict who came to Krista for help when his personal issues threatened custody of his baby daughter during his divorce. Mike is a recovering alcoholic and drug addict who worked hard to overcome his struggles, and today, he is successfully sharing custody with his ex-wife.
As Krista and Mike begin their conversation, Mike shares his initial exposure to drugs and alcohol and the role they played in his relationship with his ex-wife as they progressed toward marriage. When Mike’s ex became pregnant with their daughter, Mike hit rock bottom, still trying to convince himself he was fine. Ultimately, he recognized he needed help and entered an in-patient rehab, learning how to be honest with himself and others, and working with his ex in marriage counseling to attempt to save their marriage. When divorce became imminent, Mike moved to Colorado, where his ex had moved with their daughter, and hired Krista to assist him in getting custody of his daughter. With Krista at his side, Mike took proactive steps to earn trust with his ex, incrementally earning more time with his daughter.
Mike’s story is one that many parents can relate to, whether they are the parent struggling with addiction or the parent who needs to trust an ex-partner again. 
In this episode, you will hear:
The background behind Mike’s addiction, how he met his wife in college, and the denial and enabling surrounding his addiction
Evolution of Mike’s alcohol addiction 
Hitting rock bottom and how he convinced himself he was fine
Bringing a child into the mix and realizing he needed help
The inpatient rehab experience, honesty, and an attempt at marriage counseling to save the marriage
Divorce, a move to Colorado, hiring Krista, and getting some hard truths from her about his case
Mike’s proactive approach to gain trust and earn parenting time with his young daughter
The role of shame, kindness, and grace in becoming sober
His advice for dealing with addiction, becoming educated about its impact, healing, and faith
Resources from this Episode
www.childrenfirstfamilylaw.com
Soberlink Remote Alcohol Monitoring | Improving Lives
Have a problem with alcohol? There is a solution. | Alcoholics Anonymous
Drug Addicts Anonymous USA - Find a 12 Step Meeting Near you
Amazon.com: Beyond Addiction: How Science and Kindness Help People Change (Audible Audio Edition): Randye Kaye, Jeffrey Foote PhD, Carrie Wilkens PhD, Nicole Kosanke PhD, Stephanie Higgs PhD, Tantor Audio: Books
BACtrack | The Leader in Breathalyzers
Annie Grace - This Naked Mind
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.

018: Top 10 Things to Do (and Don't Do) When Hiring a Divorce Attorney

Hiring the right attorney in a divorce case involving children can make or break your case. If you hire the wrong one, they could be a big problem.
In this episode of Children First Family Law, Krista offers the 10 dos and don’ts of hiring a divorce attorney. A good attorney should be a peacemaker, not a gladiator, which can foster the destruction of children’s well-being, parents, and individual parties. Toxicity generally isn’t necessary, even in potentially adversarial cases.
Finding amicable solutions for children's best interests is at the heart of this episode. Using Krista’s tips for finding a good divorce attorney, you could avoid a litigious, expensive, and destructive road.
In this episode, you will hear:
The importance of hiring an attorney who is empathetic, warm, likable, and ethical
Krista’s tips for testing the accessibility and responsiveness of an attorney and their team
Ensuring your attorney will be clear and transparent about each step of the process as well as costs
How hiring someone who simplifies the process can save you a lot of money
Why humility is a valuable trait in an attorney
Reputability and its importance in the law community and red flags to consider
The value of an informed individual who is pursuing growth of knowledge and experience
The calming effect of a peacemaker in your corner
What a child-focused attorney can do for you versus one who isn’t
Problem-solving and finding the best solution for all involved parties
 
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.

017: Kayden’s Law, Domestic Violence & Challenges with the Wall Street Journal; Experiences & Insights with Dr. Matthew Sullivan

Don’t miss this episode of Children First Family Law in which Krista speaks with Dr. Matthew Sullivan, an internationally known researcher, speaker, psychologist, and author of two leading books on parental alienation and parent-child contact problems. His work emphasizes solution-driven approaches, providing practical encouragement to improve coparenting dynamics to help children flourish.   Dr. Sullivan is a pioneer in the field, having more than 30 years experience in family dispute resolution and clinical work in the family courts. He served as president of the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts from 2019 to 2020, won its President’s Award in 2023, and was awarded the Meyer Elkin recognition for his powerful work published in the Family Court Review in 2024.
 
Dr. Sullivan, along with prior guest Dr. Michael Saini, together led the “Peace Talks” regarding Kayden’s Law at a major international conference, attempting to bring together what has become at times heated division among professionals as to how to best deal in family courts with important issues of domestic violence and parental alienation. He and Krista discuss at length the dynamics that have created such tension among professionals and his thoughts on how best to move forward productively for the best interests of children.
 
Dr. Sullivan shares his expertise on the variety of approaches courts use to determine best interests of children and discusses his perspective on ways to receive and consider the voices of children in these cases. He also shares why a mental health professional a best interests attorney, and a solutions-oriented judge can create problem-solving magic in cases with complex family dynamics. 
 
In this episode, you will learn about:
Kayden’s Law and the effects the legislation could have
Dr. Sullivan’s experience with the media’s tendency to polarize domestic violence issues as seen by a recent spat with the Wall Street Journal
Advocacy for effective balance of domestic violence reform and its role in parent-child contact problems
Child custody evaluations and the underlying reasons they can fall short
Ways courts approach to determine best interests and consider the voice of children 
The three players who can create a serious problem-solving team when it comes to supporting children during divorce
The importance of getting buy-in from parents to prioritize children in divorce 
The concern of mental health challenges experienced by kids in high-conflict divorce
Thoughts on when therapy is effective and when it’s ineffective
  
Resources from this Episode
Overcoming the Co-Parenting Trap: Essential Parenting Skills When a Child Resists a Parent: www.amazon.com/gp/product/0692407995/ref=sw_img_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1
Overcoming the Alienation Crisis: 33 Coparenting Solutions: www.amazon.com/gp/product/1735099406/ref=ewc_pr_img_2?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1
Overcoming Barriers website: overcomingbarriers.org/about-us/mission
Dr. Matthew Sullivan’s website: sullydoc.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.

016: Parent-Child Contact Problems and What to Do: Insights from Clinical Psychologist Dr. Richard Spiegle

In this episode of Children First Family Law, Dr. Richard Spiegle, a renowned clinical and forensic psychologist, joins Krista to share his extensive experience in family law and child advocacy.
With a background in special education and a specialization in forensic psychology, Dr. Spiegle offers a unique perspective on the struggles that arise and the complexities involved in repairing parent-child relationships, emphasizing the need to focus on the importance to the wholeness of the child and his or her future adulthood in repairing relationships with a parent in almost all circumstances. Dr. Speigle explains the critically important view that parents must focus on relationships with children, not just parenting time, and the risk in family court that relational dynamics tend to be lost with an over emphasis on parenting time as the goal.  
Dr. Spiegle sheds light on the evolving landscape of family law, the introduction of new statutes and their impact, and mental health experts' roles in guiding families through crises. He highlights the importance of nurturing open communication and resolution in these delicate situations.
Throughout the episode, Dr. Spiegle relates impactful stories from his career, illustrating the effects of therapeutic interventions on families in distress. From addressing domestic violence to navigating estrangement and mental health issues, he underscores the necessity of creating safe environments for children to express themselves and the need for extremely careful approaches to therapeutic approaches to address parent-child contact problems.
This episode calls for systemic improvement, encouraging professionals to work together to support families and protect vulnerable children.
In this episode, you will hear:
Dr. Richard Spiegle’s take on the complexities of family law and child advocacy
Emotional and academic challenges children face long into adulthood when continued estrangement between a child and parent occurs and is not addressed
Repairing fractured parent-child relationships, focusing on favored and disfavored parent dynamics
The evolving role of mental health experts in family therapy and legal contexts
Challenges of reintegration therapy and supervised parent-child interactions
Addressing the needs and perspectives of children in cases of domestic violence and child abuse
New statutes and their impact on parenting time and decision-making processes in family courts
Resources from this Episode
Dr. Richard Spiegle’s website: psychologistsdenvercolorado.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.

015: Domestic Violence, Child Abuse, and Co-Parenting Considerations for Children of Divorce: an Interview with International Researcher and Expert Dr. Michael Saini

On this episode of Children First Family Law, join Krista and renowned psychologist Dr. Michael Saini as they delve into the complex world of family law, focusing on its impact on children and co-parenting dynamics.
Dr. Saini has authored more than 200 publications, including book chapters, government reports, systematic reviews and vast number of peer-reviewed journal articles highlighting research in the area of family law and impact on children, including leading research on the devastating impact poor co-parenting dynamics have on children post-family breakdown. Dr. Saini, a passionate advocate for children's rights, discusses initiatives like Kayden's Law and the necessity of broadening the scope of family law to avoid extreme cases from dictating policies.
Krista and Dr. Saini highlight the complexity of the dynamics around domestic violence and its implications and handling in family law cases, including discussion of the risk of creating laws in response to tragedies. Dr. Saini describes his journey from social work to academia and his extraordinary research into a vast array of topics in the family law arena. Krista and Dr. Saini discuss the benefits of parents becoming better educated in conflict resolution, highlighting Dr. Saini’s research that shows the co-parenting relationship is the top indicator of outcomes for children post-divorce. parent-child relationships within that family system. As they discuss domestic violence, mental health, co-parenting dynamics, and evolving legal landscapes, Dr. Saini provides insights into legislation affecting family dynamics. The episode underscores the importance of emphasizing co-parenting dynamics and examines international models for a balanced approach.
Tune in for a compelling conversation aimed at enhancing family law practices and advocating for the rights of children and families.
In this episode, you will hear:
Insights into Dr. Saini's extensive internationally acclaimed and recognized research in the arena of family law
Analysis of Kayden's Law and Dr. Saini’s concerns that tragedy-based policymaking fails to make best use of a multi-factor approach to complex problems of domestic violence and child abuse in family courts 
Challenges in the intersection of child protection and family law, spotlighting conflict resolution education and bridging research gaps
Examination of the importance of co-parenting dynamics on outcomes for children post-divorce
Resources from this Episode
discover.research.utoronto.ca/9702-michael-saini
www.researchgate.net/profile/Michael-Saini
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.

014: Peaceful Divorce Insights and Collaborative Law from Leading Attorney, Mediator and Family Law Icon Terri Harrington

In this episode of Children First Family Law, join Krista in a conversation with Terri Harrington, a pioneering figure in family law renowned for her dedication to fostering peaceful resolutions in divorce proceedings. With more than 40 years experience, Terri shares her journey from a Nebraska farm to becoming a leading family law attorney in Colorado, advocating for a shift from adversarial legal practices to more compassionate, solution-focused methods.
Krista and Terri delve into the evolution of harmonious ways to peacefully end marriages, discussing ways to reduce conflict and promote amicable outcomes for children in particular. They discuss the invaluable role of neutral experts, such as financial advisors and child development specialists, in achieving well-informed and equitable decisions and emphasize the importance of educating future attorneys to prioritize the well-being of families and peacemaking to help children and their parents flourish.
Krista and Terri also explore essential skills for attorneys navigating emotionally charged divorces and share strategies for maintaining strong co-parenting relationships after separation and divorce. They offer personal stories, insights, and a heartfelt perspective on how understanding the emotional dynamics of family law cases can lead to more effective resolutions.
This episode calls on the legal community to embrace empathy and understanding and set a new standard in family law practices.
In this episode, you will hear:
The needed transition from adversarial to peaceful practices in family law, focusing on problem-solving and non-adversarial solutions
The role of neutral experts, like financial advisors and child development specialists, in facilitating informed decisions and reducing conflict
Educating attorneys on peacemaking skills and understanding the emotional impact of parental conflict, referencing the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) study
Benefits of mediation preparation and the efficiency of pre-mediation negotiations for successful outcomes
An emphasis on unified parenting approaches post-divorce to support children's well-being
The evolving role of best-interest attorneys in supporting family law cases
Challenges in the legal system, including the lack of family law experience among judges and the need for a dedicated family law court
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.

013: Balancing Evidence-Collection and Peacekeeping when Proving Child Safety Issues: An Interview with Author and Divorce Survivor Cheryl Palmar

Join Krista on the Children First Family Law Podcast to explore the compelling story of Cheryl Palmar, a best-selling author in the United States and Australia who transformed her life despite the turmoil of a troubled marriage. In this episode, Cheryl shares her journey from heartache to empowerment, revealing the emotional and legal battles she encountered while navigating a marriage with a highly functioning alcoholic partner. Along the way, however, she found that with careful planning and evidence collection, she was able to accomplish and amicable divorce with a full settlement despite the potential that her case could have ended up as yet another story of toxic litigation.
Cheryl's candid narrative offers insight into the complex process of securing a future for herself and her daughter. She discusses the importance of gathering evidence, seeking legal guidance, and the strategic steps she took to ensure their safety. Her experience highlights the necessity of having a strong support system and the courage required to initiate change.
Beyond the legal aspects, Cheryl offers insights on healing and co-parenting. Her reflections on therapy and personal growth provide hope to others facing similar challenges. Cheryl’s book, "Erased: Exiting a Toxic Relationship," serves as a guiding light for those feeling trapped in toxic relationships, inspiring a path towards a healthier and more empowered future, and highlights ways to get the protections you need and want for your children even in ugly, risky situations through a careful approach to preparing for and executing your case.
In this episode, you will hear:
Cheryl Palmar's journey from a marriage with a functioning alcoholic to empowerment and healing.
Emotional struggles and legal strategies in protecting her daughter and navigating divorce.
Insights into gathering evidence, privacy concerns, and the importance of legal advice in substance abuse situations.
Revelations about the balance of collecting evidence and the ability to approach a case peacefully and without extensive litigation – all through the power of incontrovertible facts, not allegations.
The role of co-parenting, focusing on unity and the well-being of their child despite past conflicts.
Discussion on the importance of therapy and personal growth after divorce.
Cheryl's experience with sobriety testing agreements to ensure her daughter's safety during parenting time and decision making.
Resources from this Episode
www.childrenfirstfamilylaw.com
"Erased: Exiting a Toxic Relationship" by Cheryl Palmar available online on Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble
Amazon: https://a.co/d/dnrbUMY
Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/erased-cheryl-palmar/1144672044?ean=9781923123199
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.

012: Top Ten Holiday Parenting Tips in Child Custody Family Law Situations

In this episode of Children First Family Law, Krista provides tips to handle the holidays within co-parenting arrangements. 
Krista discusses the importance of having a flexible parenting plan that respects each parent's significant holidays and traditions. Families can navigate the complexities of holiday traditions and new dynamics post-divorce by prioritizing the children's experiences and well-being over parental convenience.
Effective communication can help transform holiday co-parenting from a conflict-ridden experience into a more harmonious experience. Krista provides strategies for clear communication with your co-parent, extended family, and children, helping reduce stress and confusion. Discover the benefits of coordinating gift-giving, supporting children in purchasing gifts for the other parent, and celebrating holidays on alternative days.
In this episode, you will hear:
Strategies for successful holiday planning in co-parenting, focusing on children's needs and new family dynamics
Importance of flexible parenting plans and respecting significant holidays to foster stability
Navigating holiday traditions in blended families and maintaining children's relationships with extended family
Effective communication and coordination to reduce stress and confusion during holidays
Benefits of coordinated gift-giving and supporting children in buying gifts for the other parent
Emphasis on prioritizing children's happiness and stability during holiday transitions
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.

011: Top 10 Things to Consider When Contemplating Divorce, from a Child Advocate’s View

In this episode of Children First Family Law, Krista guides you through the intricacies of divorce using a child-centered approach.
Krista shares her top ten considerations for those contemplating divorce, emphasizing the children's best interests. She highlights the importance of identifying subtle forms of abuse, such as coercive control, and discusses the potential for reconciliation in non-abusive relationships. She also underscores the value of seeking expert guidance and the value of contemplating legal separation as a potentially better first step as an alternative to divorce.
Krista addresses the challenges of co-parenting and financial management post-divorce. She explains how the legal system prioritizes the child's best interests in parenting time and decision-making, discussing the impact of shared parenting responsibilities and common conflicts. She delves into income imputation complexities in child support and spousal maintenance cases and explores changes in parenting dynamics when parents previously less involved in primary care seek more active roles.
She further examines the impact of divorce on relationships and future planning, considering the complexities of forming new relationships and relocation challenges. Krista highlights the importance of assembling a reliable team of professionals and explores different approaches to handling divorce, such as hiring attorneys, negotiating amicable agreements directly, and mediating.
This episode is a must-listen for a comprehensive guide to navigating divorce with the children's best interests in mind.
In this episode, you will hear:
Importance of a child-centered approach when considering divorce, emphasizing hiring professionals who prioritize children's needs
Identifying and addressing various forms of abuse, such as coercive control, and exploring legal separation as an alternative to divorce
Navigating co-parenting and financial management challenges post-divorce, especially for primary caregivers adjusting to shared parenting time and decision-making
Understanding the complexities of income imputation in child support and spousal maintenance and the dynamics of previously uninvolved parents seeking active roles
Impact of divorce on broader relationships, including friends, family, and new relationships, along with the challenges of potential relocations
Building a support team of legal and emotional resources to guide through the divorce process
Emphasizing the well-being of children in family law and discussing best-interest attorney roles and future series on domestic violence
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.

010: “Best Interests of Children” & Constitutional Rights to Parent: A Conversation with Arizona Judge Bruce Cohen

In this episode of Children First Family Law, Krista welcomes Judge Bruce Cohen, a distinguished figure in family law with more than 40 years of experience.
Judge Cohen shares his extensive knowledge and unique perspectives from serving in the Maricopa County court system in Arizona, the fourth largest in the United States. With a career that spans from being a young lawyer to a seasoned judge appointed by Governor Janet Napolitano in 2005, Judge Cohen discusses the intricacies of family law, particularly focusing on the delicate balance between the well-being of children and Constitutional rights to parent.
Throughout the conversation, Judge Cohen offers a deep dive into the challenges judges face, especially those new to the family law arena. He provides insights into parenting time and decision-making complexities, where terms like “best interests” are often debated. Additionally, Judge Cohen's innovative approaches to promoting healthy co-parenting and enhancing self-representation bring a fresh perspective to resolving family disputes.
We also explore Judge Cohen's experiences and reflections from the AFCC Conference in Boston, underscoring the shared commitment to improving family law practices. His passion for guiding families toward constructive resolutions and focusing on the well-being of children is evident throughout the discussion.
Join us for a thought-provoking episode enriched by Judge Cohen's insights and dedication to advancing family law practice.
In this episode, you will hear:
Judge Bruce Cohen on balancing child well-being with Constitutional rights and court principles
Insights into the challenges of early intervention in cases involving domestic violence or mental health issues
An exploration of the complexities and nuances of parenting time and decision-making
Judge Cohen's journey and experience in family law, emphasizing the importance of training and support for judges
Promoting healthy co-parenting and addressing challenges in family law dynamics
Innovative approaches to simplifying legal proceedings for self-represented litigants in family law courts
Ethical dilemmas attorneys face, emphasizing guiding clients toward constructive 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.