In many divorces, one spouse understands the finances while the other is left in the dark. When money is missing, income doesn’t add up, or a business is involved, forensic accounting can play a critical role. In this episode of Divorce at Altitude, Amy Goscha is joined by forensic accountant Doug Cash to discuss when and why forensic accounting becomes essential in a Colorado divorce.

Amy and Doug walk through common financial red flags, explain how forensic accounting differs from business valuation, and discuss how early involvement can save both time and money.

Doug Cash

Doug Cash is a forensic accountant with ID Bailey and a former law enforcement fraud investigator. His background includes decades of experience investigating financial crimes, insurance fraud, and money laundering. Doug now works with attorneys and clients in divorce and litigation matters to trace funds, clarify income, and bring transparency to complex financial situations.

Episode Outline

• Why Financial Imbalances Are Common in Divorce
  How one spouse managing the finances can leave the other vulnerable when divorce begins.
• Forensic Accounting vs. Business Valuation
  The difference between reconstructing financial records and valuing a business based on reported data.
• The Importance of Early Involvement
  Why engaging a forensic accountant early can reduce costs and prevent delays.
• Sworn Financial Statements and Tax Returns
  Why reported income may not reflect reality without reviewing source documents.
• Discovery, Source Documents, and Cost Control
  How focused discovery and original records keep investigations efficient and affordable.
• Credit Reports and Hidden Financial Activity
  How credit reports can uncover undisclosed accounts, loans, and spending.
• Tracing vs. Following Money
  The difference between identifying where money started and where it ultimately went.
• Cryptocurrency and Emerging Challenges
  How digital assets and crypto wallets complicate modern divorce cases.
• Cost-Conscious Forensic Options
  Ways to gain financial clarity without a full forensic engagement.
• Using Forensic Accounting in Mediation and Court
  How clear financial analysis strengthens mediation strategy and trial testimony.

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.

Trusts are often described as “bulletproof” in divorce—but that assumption can be misleading. In this episode of Divorce at Altitude, co-host Ryan Kalamaya is joined by associate attorney Makenzie Ralston to discuss how discretionary trusts are treated in a Colorado divorce.

Ryan and McKenzie explain when a trust may truly be protected, when it can be considered property, and when it may still affect property division, spousal maintenance, or child support—even if it is not divisible. Using common divorce scenarios and Colorado case law, they break down how trust language, trustee discretion, and distribution history can dramatically impact divorce outcomes.

Guest Information: McKenzie Ralston

McKenzie Ralston is an associate attorney at Kalamaya | Goscha with a background in estate planning and tax law. She earned her law degree and Master of Laws in Taxation from the University of Denver Sturm College of Law and focuses on the intersection of trusts, estate planning, and domestic relations.

Episode Outline

What Is a Discretionary Trust?

An overview of trust roles—settlor, trustee, and beneficiary—and how discretionary distribution standards such as health, education, maintenance, and support operate.

Revocable vs. Irrevocable Trusts

Why revocable trusts generally are not property interests for beneficiaries, how irrevocable trusts differ, and when a trust may become relevant in divorce proceedings.

Colorado Case Law on Trusts

A discussion of In re Marriage of Jones and In re Marriage of Balanson, and how courts analyze enforceable rights versus discretionary interests.

Economic Circumstances vs. Property

How a trust may not be property—but still influence property division as an economic circumstance in a divorce.

Trustee Control and Distribution Patterns

Why consistent distributions, beneficiary control, and trustee appointment powers can undermine claims that a trust is fully discretionary.

Trust Distributions as Income

How regular and dependable trust distributions may be included as gross income for spousal maintenance and child support calculations.

Drafting Trusts With Divorce in Mind

How thoughtful trust drafting—spendthrift provisions, independent trustees, divorce-triggered protections, and prenuptial requirements—can prov

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.

Colorado has implemented the most significant child support statute updates in over a decade. In this episode of Divorce at Altitude, co-host Amy Goscha is joined by associate attorney Kate Mulh for a clear, practical breakdown of House Bill 25-1159 and upcoming guideline changes that will impact parents across the state.

From medical expense reimbursement rules to IRS-driven tax credit requirements, retroactive child support factors, and revised parenting-time calculations, this episode explains what has changed, what’s coming next, and how these updates affect real families navigating divorce, child support orders, and post-decree modifications in Colorado.

Guest Information: Kate Mulh

Kate Mulh is a family law attorney at Kalamaya | Goscha, where she focuses on divorce, child support, parenting time, and post-decree matters. She regularly works with clients on complex child support calculations and statutory updates, helping families navigate changing legal and financial circumstances with clarity.

Episode Outline

Major Overhaul of Colorado’s Child Support Statute

• An overview of House Bill 25-1159, the largest update to Colorado’s child support framework in more than ten years, and why changes were needed to reflect modern families and economic realities.

Medical Expense Updates (Effective May 31, 2025)

• How the statute eliminated the $250 reimbursement threshold, clarified ordinary versus extraordinary medical expenses, and established clearer reimbursement timelines.

Child Support and Tax Credits Under IRS Rules

• What parents need to know about dependency claims, the IRS definition of “custodial parent,” equal parenting time scenarios, and the required use of IRS Form 8332.

Retroactive Child Support Changes (Effective February 1, 2026)

• An explanation of retroactive child support, newly revised statutory factors, and how courts may now evaluate parental conduct, communication, and financial agreements.

New Child Support Guidelines and Overnight Credits (Effective March 1, 2026)

• How updated child support schedules, expanded income ranges, self-support reserve adjustments, and a graduated overnight credit system address the “cliff effect” and better reflect real parenting costs.

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.

In this episode of Divorce at Altitude, Amy Goscha introduces associate attorney Kate Mulh and explores how her background in both family law and criminal defense informs her approach to divorce, parenting disputes, and protection order cases in Colorado. Kate shares insight into managing high-conflict cases, setting realistic expectations, and navigating situations where criminal allegations intersect with family court.

Episode Outline

Family Law and Criminal Defense Overlap

• How criminal cases, protection orders, and mandatory no-contact orders impact divorce and parenting cases.

Managing Client Expectations

• Why early intervention, clear communication, and realistic goals are critical in family law cases.

Team-Based Legal Strategy

• How a collaborative partner-associate approach benefits clients in complex divorce and co-parenting matters.

Key Takeaways

• Family and criminal law often intersect in divorce cases
• Early intervention can prevent escalation and conflict
• Clear communication improves co-parenting outcomes
• A team-based approach leads to better long-term results

Related Episodes & Resources

Spousal Maintenance and Domestic Violence in Colorado – How abuse allegations affect spousal maintenance in divorces in Colorado.

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.

This week, Ryan and co-host Amy Goscha explore how youth sports intersect with co-parenting and divorce. From intense schedules to rising costs, sports can offer structure and joy—or spark serious conflict between separated parents. Whether your child is just starting out or already in competitive leagues, this episode helps parents navigate decisions with clarity and focus on the child’s best interests.

🔹 Episode Highlights

Why Youth Sports Matter
• How sports build resilience, discipline, and identity—especially during divorce
• The mental and physical benefits for kids navigating change

The Pressure on Parents
• Specialization, private coaching, and travel teams: where do you draw the line?
• Why the ride home might be hurting your child’s love of the game

Co-Parenting Conflicts
• Disputes over coaching, gear, scheduling, and attendance
• When one parent is all-in and the other isn’t—how to avoid loyalty traps

Legal Planning for Sports
• Including gear exchanges, coaching roles, and attendance rules in parenting plans
• Why “Unified Sports Philosophy” clauses may prevent future battles

🔹 Key Takeaways

• Sports can be a stabilizing force for kids during divorce—when managed mindfully
• The focus should stay on the child’s development and enjoyment, not parental agendas
• Clear communication and legal planning can minimize conflict

📞 Connect with Kalamaya | Goscha
• Facebook: Kalamaya | Goscha
• LinkedIn: Kalamaya | Goscha
• Phone: 970.315.2365
• Email: info@kalamaya.law

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.

In this episode, Ryan and co-host Amy Goscha unpack a topic many divorced or separated parents face: how to navigate sleepaway summer camps. With limited summer weeks, emotional attachments, and high costs, these camps can offer both enriching experiences—and major co-parenting challenges.

🔹 Episode Highlights

Why Sleepaway Camps Spark Conflict
• Time lost with kids during a parent's summer break
• High costs and disagreements over scheduling, location, and tradition

Legal & Logistical Considerations
• Should it be in your parenting plan?
• Who pays, who travels, and who decides?
• Why early planning matters more than you think

When Camps Become Courtroom Issues
• Unilateral sign-ups, relocation concerns, and gatekeeping behavior
• Why judges rarely treat this as an emergency—and how to avoid that road

Creating a Co-Parenting Strategy
• Including clear protocols, dispute resolution, and decision timelines
• How a “Unified Camp Philosophy” can reduce conflict

🔹 Key Takeaways

• Sleepaway camps can benefit kids—if both parents are aligned
• Co-parenting plans should cover summer planning with clarity and fairness
• A proactive strategy prevents stress (and legal fights) later

📞 Connect with Kalamaya | Goscha
• Facebook: Kalamaya | Goscha
• LinkedIn: Kalamaya | Goscha
• Phone: 970.315.2365
• Email: info@kalamaya.law

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.

The holiday season can amplify both the joy and the stress for divorced or separated parents. In this re-broadcasted episode of Divorce at Altitude, Ryan and Amy revisit one of the most common challenges families face this time of year: creating a holiday parenting plan that works for everyone—especially your kids.

We break down the key differences between regular parenting schedules and holiday-specific schedules, and why courts often treat them separately. Ryan and Amy also walk through important considerations such as your child’s age, travel logistics, extended family involvement, and how your existing custody arrangement interacts with holiday time.

You’ll also learn practical strategies for minimizing holiday conflict, including when a parenting coordinator may help, how to approach scheduling conversations proactively, and ways to reduce last-minute surprises.

Because every family is unique, the episode highlights an online tool designed to help you thoughtfully plan both regular and holiday parenting schedules.

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.

Welcome back to Divorce at Altitude with Ryan Kalamaya and Amy Goscha. This week, Ryan and Amy unpack Colorado’s evolving spousal maintenance (alimony) landscape—specifically how coercive control, domestic violence, and litigation abuse now factor into maintenance decisions under §14-10-114. They lay the groundwork for when maintenance is considered, how the advisory guideline interacts with income, duration, and tax changes, and what judges are being asked to weigh beyond the traditional factors.

Episode Highlights

Maintenance 101
• When spousal maintenance is on the table after property division
• How Colorado’s advisory guideline works (income, duration, caps)

New DV/Coercive Control Factor
• How emotional/financial abuse, coercive control, and protection orders can affect awards
• Why courts may look at access to money, debt in one party’s name, and “litigation abuse”

Practice & Proof
• Evidence that helps: texts, photos, financial records, counseling history
• The credibility challenge in DV cases—and why expert testimony can matter

Judicial Reality & Open Questions
• How judges may balance lifestyle history with abuse factors
• Potential impacts on modifications and on payor/payee outcomes

Key Takeaways
• Maintenance decisions remain case-specific—now with explicit attention to abuse and control.
• Early, thorough evidence gathering is crucial.
• DV/coercive control issues may change whether maintenance is awarded, the amount, or duration.

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.