Digital Assets, Cryptocurrency & Privacy in Divorce

In this episode of Divorce at Altitude, Ryan Kalamaya is joined by Chicago-based family law attorney Jonathan Steele to explore the rapidly evolving world of digital assets, cryptocurrency, and privacy in divorce cases. As technology continues to shape financial and personal lives, this episode breaks down how crypto works in divorce, common misconceptions, and practical strategies for uncovering hidden assets while protecting client privacy.

Guest Information

Jonathan Steele is a family law attorney based in Chicago with a unique background that combines divorce law with cybersecurity and digital privacy expertise. During the COVID era, he developed a deep focus on digital assets, authentication of evidence, and privacy issues—particularly in high-asset divorce and stalking-related cases. In addition to practicing family law, Jonathan consults on cybersecurity and digital privacy matters, helping attorneys and clients navigate complex issues involving cryptocurrency, digital tracking, and online data.

Episode Highlights

What counts as a digital asset in divorce
Jonathan explains that digital assets go beyond cryptocurrency. They can include domain names, software, online businesses, and other digital property.

The biggest misconception about cryptocurrency
A key myth is that crypto is completely anonymous. Jonathan clarifies that it is actually “pseudonymous,” meaning transactions are permanently recorded on a blockchain.

Understanding exchanges vs. cold storage
Ryan and Jonathan break down how crypto is held. Exchanges like Coinbase function similarly to brokerage accounts, while cold storage wallets (offline devices) act more like a private safe.

Why subpoenas aren’t always enough
Many attorneys default to subpoenaing exchanges, but Jonathan notes that this often misses the bigger picture.

The “on-ramp and off-ramp” strategy
Instead of starting with exchanges, Jonathan recommends looking at bank statements.

Cold wallets and the seed phrase problem
Cold storage wallets require a private “seed phrase” (often 12 words) to access funds.

What is Divorce at Altitude?

Ryan Kalamaya and Amy Goscha provide tips and recommendations on issues related to divorce, separation, and co-parenting in Colorado. Ryan and Amy are the founding partners of an innovative and ambitious law firm, Kalamaya | Goscha, that pushes the boundaries to discover new frontiers in family law, personal injuries, and criminal defense in Colorado.

To subscribe to Divorce at Altitude, click here and select your favorite podcast player. To subscribe to Kalamaya | Goscha's YouTube channel where many of the episodes will be posted as videos, click here. If you have additional questions or would like to speak to one of our attorneys, give us a call at 970-429-5784 or email us at info@kalamaya.law.

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DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS ON THIS PODCAST IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE. CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE OR AREA TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE ON ANY OF THESE ISSUES.