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A custody case can begin long before filing: an angry message, social post, or tense exchange may shape how a judge sees a parent. Krista talks with Virginia family law attorney Whitney Pennington about choices that shape a family’s record. Pennington urges parents to pause before replying, keep communication respectful, avoid involving children, and answer hostile messages without escalating. Sarcasm, profanity, threats, repeated texts, and labels such as “narcissist” can damage credibility. When past conduct is raised, she says, acknowledge it honestly, explain what you learned, and show steps taken to change. The conversation also covers choosing mediation where possible, documenting incidents and parenting time, and keeping records of child support payments and missed amounts. Pennington stresses that local laws differ, including rules for ending support obligations. Listeners will hear how calmer communication, accountability, and careful recordkeeping can protect children, reduce conflict, and help parents prepare for court. In this episode, you will hear: How pre-court conduct can shape a custody case Keeping texts, emails, and social media posts calm Taking responsibility for past mistakes and showing change Avoiding conflict and keeping children out of adult disputes Using mediation and documenting parenting time Keeping clear records of child support payments and missed amounts Resources from this Episode https://natlawreview.com/commentary-and-opinions/why-family-law-cases-fail-they-even-reach-court?utm_source=chatgpt.com www.childrenfirstfamilylaw.com Get Your Free Guide - Discover How Colorado Families Are Saving Thousands in Legal Fees While Protecting Their Children's Emotional Well-Being During Divorce: https://go.childrenfirstfamilylaw.com/divorce-mediation  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.

One late-night post can follow a parent into court months later. In this episode, Krista explains how posts, stories, comments, photos, location data, and dating profiles may become evidence in Colorado custody disputes. She explains evidence rules and how posts can be used against their authors.  Nash explains that private accounts are not legally privileged and warns against deleting potential evidence or accessing an ex-partner’s accounts. Listeners will learn to pause before posting, preserve records, and keep adult conflict away from children. She leaves listeners with two questions: Would I want this read in court? Is it good for my child? In this episode, you will hear: Authentication, hearsay, and relevance rules Posts about co-parents, court proceedings, and parenting Privacy settings and preserving potential evidence Children’s online privacy and location tracking Dating profiles and introducing new partners Social media activity and protection orders Resources from this Episode www.childrenfirstfamilylaw.com Get Your Free Guide - Discover How Colorado Families Are Saving Thousands in Legal Fees While Protecting Their Children's Emotional Well-Being During Divorce: https://go.childrenfirstfamilylaw.com/divorce-mediation  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.

In this episode, host Krista Nash sits down with parenting expert, author, and coach Christina McGhee to tackle one of the most difficult moments in divorce: telling your children. Christina, who has spent over two decades helping families navigate separation, shares compassionate, practical guidance for parents who want to put their children first during this life-altering conversation. Together, Krista and Christina explore the emotional weight parents carry and the common mistakes that can undermine a child’s sense of security. Christina emphasizes the importance of clarity, preparation, and unified messaging, reminding parents that while the marriage may be ending, parenting is not. She introduces strategies such as framing divorce as a change rather than an ending, using age-appropriate language, and avoiding over-sharing or placing emotional burdens on children. Listeners will also hear insights into how children of different ages process divorce, the dangers of using children as confidants, and the long-term impact of blurred boundaries. Christina offers practical tools for ensuring children feel a sense of belonging in both homes and encourages ongoing dialogue rather than a “one and done” conversation. In this episode, you will hear: Divorce doesn’t end parenting—it changes how you parent. Always use clear, age-appropriate language, including the word “divorce.” Never make your child a confidant or emotional caretaker. Prepare and plan the conversation instead of “winging it.” Make it an ongoing dialogue, not a one-time event. Resources from this Episode Christina McGhee, Divorce Parenting Expert, Trainer, Coach, Author, Education & Training Director: SPLIT Films – Divorce and Children, LLC https://coparentingspecialist.com/ https://divorceandchildren.com/ Book: Parenting Apart: How Separated and Divorced Parents Can Raise Happy and Secure Kids https://www.amazon.com/s?k=parenting+apart+christina+mcghee&crid=3T5BH29G1YY0&sprefix=parenting+apart%2Caps%2C163&ref=nb_sb_ss_p13n-pd-dpltr-ranker_2_15 https://divorceandchildren.com/about-christina-mcghee/ 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.

New romantic partners after divorce can feel like hope for parents and yet another upheaval for kids. We explore how children actually experience a parent's dating life, drawing on long-term research about stepfamilies, loyalty conflicts, and the impact of repeated relationship changes. Listeners learn why stable, slower-paced introductions matter, how age shapes a child's reaction, and why one-on-one time with each parent remains essential.  Krista lays out a clear ladder-style framework for introducing a partner, from first conversations with your co-parent and kids, to brief neutral meetings, to carefully timed overnights and cohabitation. We also look at Colorado law on parenting plans, morality clauses, and what courts really require before limiting parenting time because of a new partner.  Throughout, Krista offers guidance for both the dating parent and the non-dating parent so families can reduce conflict, protect children, and build steadier blended family relationships. Listeners leave with clear, concrete steps. In this episode, you will hear: How kids actually experience a parent’s new romantic partner as another big change Research on stepfamilies, loyalty binds, and the impact of repeated partner turnover Age-specific guidance for toddlers, school-age kids, and teens on introductions Step-by-step “ladder” for timing, first meetings, overnights, and moving in together The healthy role of a new partner connection before correction and staying out of discipline Colorado law on parenting plans, morality clauses, and when a new partner becomes a legal issue 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.

Divorce may end a marriage, but it does not end the responsibility to raise a child together. We explore what parallel parenting really means when cooperative co-parenting feels impossible. Krista reframes parallel parenting as a way to reduce unnecessary conflict while still sharing essential information and supporting one child moving between two homes. We look at how chronic conflict harms kids, what children actually notice and internalize, and the subtle ways loyalty binds show up. Krista walks through strategies for calmer, businesslike communication, using parenting apps, structuring exchanges to protect children from tension, and drafting specific, child-centered parenting plans. We also touch on when added support can help, and how safety concerns and domestic violence change the analysis. In this episode, you will hear: What parallel parenting is and what it is not The “two train tracks, one train” analogy for co-parenting after divorce How chronic conflict and loyalty binds impact children Strategies for low-drama, businesslike communication between parents Using parenting apps, shared calendars, and detailed parenting plans Structuring exchanges and events to reduce stress on kids When parenting coordinators, decision makers, or safety-focused plans are needed 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.

Krista Nash welcomes back Dr. Karey O'Hara for this episode, following up on research first introduced on an earlier visit to the podcast. Parents going through separation or divorce are often told that conflict is bad for their kids, but Karey, a psychologist and researcher at Arizona State University, explains why that message misses the point. Karey and her team spent years studying children ages nine to twelve living through high conflict divorce, testing which coping strategies actually help and whether combining several works better than relying on one alone. The results surprised even the research team. One simple strategy, relaxation, outperformed the rest. Karey walks through what happens in a child's body during parental conflict, what parents should avoid doing in those moments, and how a free program from her lab lets families put the findings into practice right away. It's a hopeful, practical conversation for any parent trying to protect their kids amid conflict they can't control. In this episode, you will hear: Why the "conflict is bad for kids" message actually sets parents up to fail What Dr. Karey O'Hara's research found about kids coping with high conflict divorce The one strategy that outperformed every other coping tool tested What actually happens in a child's brain and body during parental conflict Simple moves parents can make in the moment to help kids reset How destructive conflict differs from conflict kids can learn from A free program families can start using today, straight from the research Resources from this Episode Sign up to take/use the resources discussed on the podcast:  www.asuyfacslab.org/brainteam https://search.asu.edu/profile/3192762 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.

Krista Nash sits down with Colorado attorney Lisa Shellenberger, managing partner at Setter Roche Smith & Shellenberger, to talk through a corner of family law most parents never see coming until they're standing in it. When a parent dies, disappears into addiction, or simply can't provide safe care, the person left holding things together is rarely equipped for what comes next. Krista and Lisa unpack the real difference between guardianship and custody, why probate court can move faster than domestic court, and what happens when a parent gets back on their feet and wants their child returned. They also cover the constitutional rights every parent holds and how families can put protections in place before a crisis forces their hand. It's a conversation built for anyone quietly raising a child who isn't legally theirs yet. In this episode, you will hear: Why guardianship and custody solve two completely different legal problems for kids The 182 day rule that determines who has standing to file for custody as a non-parent How probate court can move faster than family court in a genuine crisis What it actually takes to prove a parent is unable or unwilling to safely parent The constitutional rights every parent holds, even in a guardianship case What happens to a guardian's authority the moment a parent gets better Practical steps families can take now, before a crisis forces their hand 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.

Maintaining a child’s attachment to a parent with substance abuse issues can be a complex path to navigate. With advice from experts and keeping the child’s best interests first and foremost, parents and courts can successfully co-parent and maintain a healthy parent-child relationship. This episode of Children First Family Law is part two of Krista’s two-part series on navigating substance misuse issues alongside co-parenting in a divorce situation. While citing the research and expertise of  Dr. Stephanie Tabashnecke, Krista highlights the vulnerability of children in a family law case when a parent is struggling with substance abuse. She shares the underlying causes of this disorder and why understanding it can help both parents cope while keeping the child’s best interests at the forefront of their co-parenting conversations. You’ll hear why relapse is an expected part of struggling with this disorder, the top ten myths surrounding substance abuse, and how disrupting a child’s attachment to a caregiver can impact their lifelong health. Krista explains how to set up a treatment plan that continues communication with the child, the importance of using a trauma-informed approach, and her top ten tips for judges and attorneys handling cases involving parents with substance abuse issues. Understanding the science at play behind a substance abuse disorder can help guide parents to a solution that benefits parents and child and ensures the child’s needs are met throughout the process. Don’t miss this deep dive into the science and expertise to guide you through the complexities of a substance abuse disorder. In this episode, you will hear: Leading current thoughts on the nuances of dealing with sobriety issues of parents in family law cases, considering strongly safety of children while balancing attachment needs of children Input from leading experts such as Dr. Stephanie Tabashneck, leading Harvard psychologist and lawyer, who provides background insight to help family court professionals and parents navigate this challenging area  The vulnerability of children in a substance abuse situation and the lines of protection the court and attorneys may invoke Understanding the underlying factors that can trigger a substance abuse disorder and the consensus in the medical and scientific communities to treat them as chronic conditions Relapse is part of a substance abuse disorder, and improper treatment, stress, and unmanaged co-occurring conditions can increase relapse risk Finding strategies to meet the attachment needs of children and avoiding overreaction to relapse The 10 myths surrounding substance abuse and the factors that increase a predisposition to addiction Seeking a dopamine “hit” and the impact substances can have on the dopamine baseline Role of genetics in substance abuse Attachment in children and the impact messaging can have on that attachment, especially as it relates to substance abuse Creating treatment plans that work for families logistically and financially and the components of a good treatment plan The Optimal Parenting Time Decision Tree criteria used by professionals to evaluate optimal parenting time Assessments, testing for alcohol and drug use, and questions to consider Having a plan in place in the event of a relapse with specificity and creating a parent plan for this scenario The impact on child attachment when completely removing a caregiver from their lives and mitigating this issue Using a trauma-informed approach for the parent experiencing substance abuse The top 10 tips for judges and attorneys in cases involving parents with substance abuse Resources from this Episode Children First Family Law: www.childrenfirstfamilylaw.com American Society of Addiction Medicine: www.asam.org Center for Disease Control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University: www.developingchild.harvard.edu Guidelines for Court Practices for Supervised Visitation: www.mass.gov/files/documents/2018/11/29/supervised-visitation-guidelinesfinal%20%281%29.pdf National Association for Children of Addiction: www.nacoa.org National Institute on Drug Abuse: www.drugabuse.gov National Institute of Mental Health: www.nimh.nih.gov Ruth Potee, M.D.: www.ruthpotee.com Smart Recovery: www.smartrecovery.org Standards for Supervised Visitation Practice: www.svnworldwide.org/attachments/standards.pdf Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration: www.samhsa.gov Substance use and parenting: Best practices for family court practitioners: www.afccnet.org/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=-RkXrNzIkr8%3d&portalid=0 Tabashneck, S., Drozd, L. & Soilson, J. (in press), Substance Use Disorders: A Primer for Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners, book chapter: The Family Dispute Resolution Handbook. (editors: P. Salem, & K. Brown-Olson) https://global.oup.com/academic/product/family-dispute-resolution-9780197545904?cc=us&lang=en& This Naked Mind: thisnakedmind.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.

Substance abuse is often used as a weapon in family court, even when there isn’t a significant problem. Courts have several ways of handling this issue, and each method can have long-term implications. In this episode of Children First Family Law, Krista explores how family courts determine whether a parent is safe with a child. She outlines her experiences with families dealing with these scenarios, implementing advice and expertise from psychologist and attorney Dr. Stephanie Tabashneck. Two previous podcast episodes, with guests Cheryl and Mike, explore both parenting sides of this situation. Krista offers an outline of the tools the court can use to evaluate a substance abuse issue and any additional risk factors. You’ll also hear the 10 factors the DSM-5 defines substance abuse. Together, these tools help attorneys and courts form parenting time recommendations. Substance abuse in a divorce scenario can be complicated. This episode is a guide for navigating substance abuse while keeping children’s best interests at the forefront. In this episode, you will hear: Substance abuse—primarily alcohol—is a chronic issue in family court, requiring assessments of handling approaches, their implications, and parental safety. Krista’s experiences working with families in these situations and the expert advice she receives from attorney and psychologist Dr. Stephanie Tabashneck The tools used by courts when a child’s safety is an immediate concern Why courts are sometimes hesitant to restrict legal substance use entirely  Direct testing methods like Soberlink or BACtrack, urine analysis, hair follicle, and nail testing Substance Use Evaluation (SUE) involves an in-depth assessment conducted by a highly qualified professional with a strong background in addiction counseling, psychology, social work, or a related field. Psychological testing in conjunction with a Substance Use Evaluation A sample of questions you can expect from a Substance Use Evaluator (SUE) and the background information included Substance Abuse Subtle Screening Inventory (SASSI) evaluations and its insight into a person’s potential proclivity for substance abuse DSM-5’s definition of substance abuse and substance abuse disorders and the required criteria The 10 factors used to diagnose a substance abuse disorder according to the DSM-5 Dimensions to evaluate for level of care decisions and what to look for in the evaluator’s report Recommendations following a Substance Use Evaluation (SUE) based on the results and when these evaluations are needed Resources from this Episode www.childrenfirstfamilylaw.com Soberlink Remote Alcohol Monitoring | Improving Lives BACtrack | The Leader in Breathalyzers Home www.NAADAC.org Adult SASSI-4 | The SASSI Institute Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) Michigan Alcohol Screening Test (MAST) 5280 Drug Testing - 5280 Drug Testing, Greenwood Village, CO Drug Testing - Precise Monitoring ASAM - American Society of Addiction Medicine SAMHSA - Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM5). American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders – Fifth Edition (DSM-5) defines a Substance Use Disorder based on using the criteria below. If, in the previous 12 months, an individual was identified as meeting 2-3 of the criteria they would have a mild disorder; meeting 4-5 criteria would equal a moderate disorder; and meeting 6 or more criteria would indicate a severe disorder. If the individual had previously met the criteria for a Substance Use Disorder, and none of the criteria have been met in the last three months, but less than 12 months, the diagnosis would be considered “In Early Remission.” If the individual had previously met the criteria for a Substance Use Disorder, and none of the criteria have been met in the previous 12 months, the diagnosis would be considered “In Sustained Remission." Substance is often taken in larger amounts over longer time period than was intended Persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control substance use Great deal of time spent in activities necessary to obtain, use, or recover from its effects Craving, or a strong desire or urge to use the substance Recurrent use resulting in failure to fulfill major role obligations at work, school, or home  Continued use despite persistent or recurrent social or interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by the effects of the substance use Important social, occupational, or recreational activities are given up or reduced Recurrent use in physically hazardous situations    Continued use despite knowledge of having a persistent recurrent physical or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused or exacerbated by substance use  Tolerance as defined by:                       A need for markedly increased amounts to achieve intoxication or desired effect A markedly diminished effect with continued use of the same amount of substance Withdrawal, as manifested by either of the following: The characteristic withdrawal syndrome for the substance   The substance, or a closely related substance is taken to relieve or avoid withdrawal symptoms 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.

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.

A parent taking a child on vacation is one thing. Crossing international borders without the other parent's agreement is something else entirely. We explore where that line is drawn, why parental kidnapping is often misunderstood, and how the Hague Convention handles custody disputes that span multiple countries. Family law attorney Devon Rood Slovensky explains when parents are free to travel with their children, when legal restrictions begin, and why many situations people fear are "kidnapping" do not meet that standard. We also examine the Hague Convention through the high-profile Saeed Abedini case, where a young child was taken from Turkey to the United States, leading to a complex international legal fight. Devon shares how courts determine a child's habitual residence, why acting quickly matters, and how delays can affect the outcome of a case. Along the way, we discuss the role of federal courts, the challenges families face when different countries are involved, and the legal principles that guide judges through these difficult disputes.  Whether you're a parent, attorney, or simply curious about international custody law, you'll gain a clearer understanding of how these cases are handled and why they can become so complicated.  In this episode, you will hear: What parental kidnapping legally means and common misconceptions When parents can travel with children during custody disputes How the Hague Convention handles international child custody cases The role of habitual residence in cross-border custody decisions Lessons from the Saeed Abedini international child abduction case Why acting quickly can affect the outcome of a Hague Convention case How federal courts address international custody disputes compared to state courts Resources from this Episode https://slovenskylaw.com/  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saeed_Abedini  https://www.hcch.net/en/instruments/conventions/specialised-sections/child-abduction  https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/International-Parental-Child-Abduction/abductions/legain-info-for-parents/why-the-hague-convention-matters.html 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.

In this conversation, Krista sits down with special education attorney and expert witness LaTanya Moore, author of IEPs Made Easy: A Parent’s Guide to Special Education Advocacy. We unpack how education decisions during and after divorce can profoundly shape a child’s future. Krista and LaTanya explain why IEPs (Individualized Education Programs) and 504 plans are not just “school paperwork,” but critical tools that can either support or undermine a child’s ability to learn and thrive — especially when parents are in conflict. They clarify the legal framework behind IDEA and Section 504, what each plan actually does, and how to tell when a child needs more than simple classroom accommodations. Listeners will learn practical questions every parent and family lawyer should ask about a child’s educational needs, why early intervention matters, and how to reframe “labels” as access to support — not a life sentence. Above all, Krista and LaTanya urge parents and professionals to treat education planning as neutral ground, where the child’s needs come first, even when everything else feels adversarial. In this episode, you will hear: Best interests of the child when special needs intersect with custody and parenting plans What IEPs and 504 plans are and how they differ in protections and services How inconsistent home routines, medication use, and parental denial impact school functioning When a 504 plan is not enough and an IEP with measurable goals is needed The role of family lawyers in spotting educational issues and asking the right questions Early intervention, proper diagnosis, and COVID-era developmental delays Reframing “labels” and using school-based supports as neutral ground for co-parents Resources from this Episode https://www.theieplawyers.com/  Book: IEPs Made Easy: https://www.amazon.com/IEPs-Made-Easy-Step-Step-ebook/dp/B0DKJMCG32/ref=sr_1_4?crid=LRSOVSNMETZN&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.xKwOjYo0bPNMOzG_hA72AI3XWfSNo947YVHEIQPNY_0Aj18Qtpayink8xAo07ITrTj4l7O92GHnlfk8AEToj6jvifcSG4U_2hQKtmUfWm2Xp2XwpV66rVfpeLNYEnsrcJO1tyIof3fTy30atBv5zMRfDiQRAK9hXNpMROhRanQcKVFhej5D0Kh3NWqG9PhtZMwBCMERAbJq4B58I48tNVh2gW1yp1yPSrnCkVzmy2HU.F_4X6qXnP3nS3xI6dIkhSP7loRo2QyylEXoavJr9FZ0&dib_tag=se&keywords=IEPs+made+easy&qid=1784825135&sprefix=ieps+made+easy%2Caps%2C212&sr=8-4  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 legal advice through this podcast. 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.

In this episode of the Children First Family Law®️ podcast, Krista breaks down the leading reasons parents lose custody or experience restrictions on parenting time in Colorado. Drawing on her work as a child advocate and family law attorney, Krista explains how judges evaluate safety, stability, mental health, and co-parenting behaviors when deciding on parental responsibilities. She also reminds listeners that “losing custody” in Colorado rarely means a permanent loss of parental rights. Instead, it typically reflects temporary limits tied to a child’s best interests. Krista walks through the three most common categories that lead courts to restrict parenting time—safety concerns, parental unfitness or instability, and damaging co-parenting behavior. She illustrates each category with case patterns she has seen repeatedly in child advocacy work, including emotional abuse, unmanaged mental health issues, and behavior that undermines the child’s relationship with the other parent. She emphasizes that Colorado courts prioritize the child’s emotional and physical safety above all else, and that parents who take proactive steps, such as treatment, stable routines, and appropriate communication, can protect or rebuild their parenting time. For parents, professionals, and supporters, this episode serves as a clear and practical guide to navigating Colorado custody cases while centering children’s well-being. In this episode, you will hear: Safety issues that lead judges to restrict parenting time Behaviors that courts view as instability or parental unfitness Patterns of harmful co-parenting that damage custody outcomes Practical steps parents can take to protect and rebuild time with their 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.  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.

In this episode of the Children First Family Law®️ podcast, Krista welcomes Nil Buckley, a licensed professional counselor, licensed addiction counselor, and domestic violence clinical supervisor whose expertise bridges trauma-informed mental health, forensic evaluation, and family law. Nil is the founder of Vivas Counseling and Care Forensic Solutions and creator of The CARE Method, an evidence-based program now used in multiple states to support both survivors and offenders. Her background includes extensive work with the Colorado Department of Corrections, court-ordered treatment programs, and expert testimony in criminal and domestic relations cases. Drawing from this deep professional experience, Nil joins Krista to explore how coercive control and its related forms, including legal abuse, financial manipulation, and psychological coercion, show up in custody cases and family court. She explains that there are now 24 recognized forms of abuse in the global research literature, yet many family law professionals still focus only on physical harm. Nil’s work seeks to change that by educating judges, attorneys, and mental health providers about the full spectrum of domestic violence and its impact on children. The discussion also examines Colorado’s evolving domestic violence laws, such as Kayden’s Law, which aim to protect families better but can be challenging to implement consistently in court. Nil and Krista address the tension between holding offenders accountable and ensuring survivors aren’t further harmed by systems meant to safeguard them. They share real-world examples of how trauma, reactive behaviors, and legal complexity intersect in divorce and custody disputes and what professionals can do to create safer, more balanced outcomes. This conversation launches a continuing series on domestic violence and coercive control, setting the stage for future episodes with Nil that will dive even deeper into the realities of abuse, accountability, and healing in family law. In this episode, you will hear: Expanding definitions of abuse beyond physical violence How coercive control and legal abuse appear in custody disputes Why trauma-informed evaluations matter in family law cases The complexities of applying Kayden’s Law and related legislation How professionals can balance accountability with survivor protection The importance of continued education across courts and legal systems Resources from this Episode safersociety.org/nil-buckley-ma-lpc-lac-dvcs-ncc-acs 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.

When families separate, deciding who keeps the dog can feel just as emotional as any other part of the breakup. In this episode, we explore why pet disputes become so charged and how to make decisions that truly prioritize both kids and animals. We walk through why it’s crucial not to treat pets like children in divorce, how their needs differ, and what happens when those lines get blurred. Karis explains how breed, personality, age, health, and history all factor into whether a dog can realistically move between homes, and why shared pet parenting often creates more stress than comfort for the animal. We also talk about cats, “roommate” animals, bonded pairs, and why territory matters so much. Parents, professionals, and pet lovers will learn practical ways to evaluate what’s actually best for the dog, how to structure trial arrangements, and how to balance children’s attachment with responsible, long-term planning for their four-legged family members. In this episode, you will hear: Emotional stakes of pet custody when families separate   Why pets should not be treated like children in divorce decisions   Warning signs that a pet is stressed by moving between homes   Structuring trial custody arrangements and contingency plans for pets   Balancing children’s attachment to pets with the animal’s best interests   Resources from this Episode https://www.whokeepsthedog.com/ Link to the book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Who-Keeps-Dog-Navigating-Custody/dp/1617812927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1FZ5RBAJ965HI&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.LmWDiJYDbIW6rqEj5igpcg.QFgZQNsCn-YRAPD3Adzv_AT00lqniZlIsbCHr3IUy2s&dib_tag=se&keywords=book+who+keeps+the+dog+karis+nafte&qid=1728661858&sprefix=book+who+keeps+the+dog+karis+nafte%2Caps%2C370&sr=8-1 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.