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

009: Domestic Violence and Child Abuse: Kayden's Law Introduction

In this episode of Children First Family Law, Krista provides an important introduction to what will be an ongoing conversation on the podcast: the complexities of domestic violence, child abuse, and child sexual abuse in family law cases and the current landscape of laws attempting to safeguard those at risk. 
This introduction highlights the complexities of this area of family law and provides a solid foundation for understanding the issues. She also previews a series of thought leaders who will join the show in early 2025 to help unpack these important issues.
On this episode, Krista explains the differences between the dependency and neglect courts and family courts and the inability of family courts to terminate parental rights, even if there has been domestic violence or child abuse. She introduces Kayden’s Law, a Pennsylvania statute that aims to protect children, which then spawned federal attention and legislation, which then motivated Colorado to be among the first additional states to change its laws to better protect children from parents who commit DV and child abuse and child sexual abuse.
Krista explains Colorado’s leadership in the transformation of family court reform to better address domestic violence and child abuse, including laws in 2023 and 2024 that greatly change the protections regarding these issues in family courts. These laws have created a pivotal shift in defining domestic violence within legal contexts, including the importance of including children's voices and better defining domestic violence to include aspects of coercive control. This episode advocates for a more compassionate family law system. It encourages listeners to actively engage with these reforms, creating an environment where children and those affected by abuse are genuinely heard and protected.
In this episode, you will hear:
Exploring the complexities of family law related to domestic violence and child abuse
Challenges victims face, such as fears of escalation and financial instability
Differences between dependency and neglect cases versus domestic relations court cases
Introduction of Kayden’s Law 
Colorado laws that elevate domestic violence, including aspects of coercive control, and attempt to get children's voices in court
The role of parenting plan evaluators and mandatory reporters in protecting children
The importance of engaging with reforms for a more effective legal system that protects children
 
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.

008: Cynthia Roberts - Understanding Supervised Parenting Time

On this episode of Children First Family Law, Krista dives into the intricate world of supervised parenting in situations with safety concerns for children. Our guest, Cynthia Roberts, who is well-versed in mental health and family law, shares her journey from a mental health specialist to a therapeutic parenting time supervisor, helping navigate keeping children safe when there are allegations of a variety of safety concerns for children with a parent.   She offers a unique perspective on how these visits can be both protective and transformative.
 
Krista and Cynthia explore the challenges families face during contentious divorces, including the financial and logistical hurdles associated with supervised visitations. Cynthia discusses the delicate balance between providing therapeutic intervention and keeping meticulous documentation to ensure the safety and well-being of children. She clarifies the nuanced differences between therapeutic and standard supervised visitations, emphasizing the importance of unobtrusive supervision to allow for genuine family interactions. The discussion extends to the varied roles within family law, highlighting both Child and Family Investigators (CFIs) and best-interest attorneys such as Child Legal Representatives (CLRs) and reflecting attempts at more effective child-focused advocacy in high-conflict scenarios. Cynthia emphasizes the emotional demands on professionals in this field and the necessity for supportive professional relationships to enhance outcomes and prevent burnout.
 
Tune in to learn from Cynthia Roberts how to create supportive and safe environments for children in these complicated family law situations.
 
In this episode, you will hear:
Exploring the role of supervised visitations 
Insights from Cynthia Roberts on the delicate balance between providing therapeutic intervention and keeping meticulous documentation to ensure the safety and well-being of children
The challenges faced by families, including financial and logistical hurdles, in securing qualified therapeutic supervised visitation specialists
Examination of the roles of  Child and Family Investigators (CFIs) to best-interest attorneys and the impact on child-centered advocacy in family law
The emotional demands on family law professionals and the importance of maintaining professionalism and respect
Strategies for managing parent exchanges to ensure children's safety and comfort during visitations
The role of supervised visitations in assessing parenting behaviors and supporting positive parent-child interactions
 
Resources from this Episode
Roberts Family Resolution Services: www.robertsfamilyresolution.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.

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. 
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.

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: Amicable Uncontested Divorce Services

Mediation can be an excellent solution for some families, but it is often an ineffective problem-solving technique.
On this episode of Children First Family Law, Krista explains a court’s obligation to attempt Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) before a contested hearing and the challenges that could arise during mediation. Mediation is not always the most effective resolution tool, and Krista explains why it often fails. She shares why she created Amicable Uncontested Family Law Solutions, what you can expect from that process, and why Krista’s method helps parents learn to co-parent more effectively. Krista outlines the challenges mediation can present, with attorneys often making the situation more difficult than it needs to be. She shares the steps clients and attorneys can take before entering mediation, what differentiates collaborative law from mediation, and her passion for mitigating the damage done to families by helping them recognize when they need help.
Children’s well-being is at the heart of Krista’s law practice, and she wants attorneys and families to know what they can do to create better co-parenting situations that benefit all involved parties.
In this episode, you will hear:
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and a court’s requirement to do this type of mediation before a contested hearing
The issues a prepared mediator will address during the mediation session
Mediation’s lack of effectiveness and some reasons it often fails
Krista’s love of creating effective solutions with settlement conferences as opposed to traditional mediation
Amicable Uncontested Family Law Solutions and what Krista’s clients can expect to gain from this product offering
The involvement of attorneys making a divorce situation far more difficult
Using the Children First Family Law podcast as a resource for parents and attorneys
The steps a client should take before entering mediation and the information attorneys need to create a good outcome
Collaborative Law definition and who it best suits
Krista’s preference to help both parents and help them learn to co-parent better
Mitigating damage in families by helping them recognize when they need help
 
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.