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

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. 
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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.

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.