Welcome back to another episode of Divorce at Altitude! This week, host Ryan Kalamaya is joined by Certified Divorce Lending Professional (CDLP) Karla Kyte to discuss the critical intersection of divorce and real estate. With real estate prices and mortgage rates making headlines, it’s more important than ever for divorcing individuals to understand how homeownership, refinancing, and mortgage assumptions play a role in their financial future.

Karla brings 27 years of lending experience in Colorado and specializes in helping divorcing clients navigate the often-overlooked financial challenges of property division and home financing. This episode is packed with key insights on common misconceptions, financial pitfalls, and essential planning strategies for divorcing homeowners.

Episode Highlights:

• Why Real Estate is a Critical Factor in Divorce: Ryan and Karla discuss why nearly every divorce involves the marital home and how real estate decisions can have long-term financial consequences.
• The Impact of Child Support & Spousal Maintenance on Loan Qualification: Learn how temporary and permanent support orders affect mortgage approvals, including why three years of support is often required for financing.
• The Hidden Challenges of Refinancing & Mortgage Assumptions: Karla dispels myths about mortgage assumptions and explains why simply “taking over” a loan isn’t as easy as it sounds—and why a refinancing strategy may be more beneficial.
• Buying a Home Before the Divorce is Final: Can you buy a home before your divorce is finalized? Yes—but only if specific legal and financial conditions are met. Karla breaks down the steps necessary to make this work.
• Why You Need a Certified Divorce Lending Professional (CDLP): Many divorcing individuals unknowingly agree to settlements they can’t execute, leading to forced home sales and financial hardship. Karla explains why early mortgage planning is crucial and how a CDLP can help prevent costly mistakes.

Key Takeaways:

• Misconceptions About Mortgage Lending in Divorce: Many attorneys and lenders misunderstand mortgage qualifications for divorcing clients. Karla reveals the most common mistakes that can derail home financing.
• Temporary Support & Its Role in Home Loans: Establishing court-ordered temporary support early in the process ca

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! In this episode, Ryan is joined by co-host and family law attorney Amy Goscha to explore how property division impacts spousal maintenance in Colorado divorce cases.

Whether you're a high-net-worth individual or navigating a more modest estate, understanding the relationship between property distribution and support obligations is critical. Ryan and Amy unpack how Colorado law approaches these issues and the strategic implications for both parties in a divorce.

Episode Highlights

Property First, Then Maintenance
Learn why Colorado courts divide property before considering spousal maintenance—and how the type, value, and liquidity of assets can affect support awards.

High-Net-Worth Divorce Scenarios
Does $10 million mean no spousal maintenance? Ryan and Amy explain why wealth doesn’t always eliminate support obligations.

Asset Composition Matters
From businesses to brokerage accounts to homes, not all assets are created equal when calculating income and support.

Lifestyle & Location
How lifestyle differences between Aspen and Grand Junction might impact maintenance—and why judges consider reasonable needs and cost of living.

Disproportionate Property Awards
Why courts may prefer awarding a greater share of property to avoid ongoing maintenance obligations—and how that plays into long-term financial planning.

Key Takeaways

• Colorado is an equitable—not equal—distribution state. Property division isn't always 50/50.
• The more property a party receives, the less likely they are to qualify for spousal maintenance.
• Maintenance is based on both need and ability to pay, and judges often consider the type of asset, lifestyle, and long-term earning capacity.
• Financial experts can play a key role in helping determine reasonable needs, passive income potential, and net spendable income.

📞 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.

Welcome back to Divorce at Altitude with host Ryan Kalamaya! In this episode, Ryan is joined by co-host and seasoned family law attorney Amy Goscha to break down the most significant proposed changes to Colorado’s family law rules in over a decade. After spending two years working on the Colorado Supreme Court's Family Issues Committee, Amy offers a behind-the-scenes look at how these reforms aim to modernize and streamline the family law process.

Whether you're a legal professional or navigating a family law matter in Colorado, this episode provides essential insight into what’s changing, why it matters, and how you can submit your feedback before the rules are finalized.

Episode Highlights

Why Change Was Needed:
• How family law differs from other civil disputes
• Addressing Colorado’s growing pro se population and increasing court efficiency

Key Rule Updates:
• Streamlined disclosures (pay stubs, trusts, real estate, etc.)
• Merging and simplifying Rule 16.2 and Rule 26 for clarity
• Clearer standards for expert disclosures and procedures

Contempt & Attorney Fees:
• Expanded scenarios for awarding attorney’s fees
• New guidance for enforcing court orders more effectively

Special Topics Covered:
• Updates on Guardian ad Litem (GAL) appointments and expectations
• Proposed informal trial process for pro se parties
• Clarified procedures for CFIs and PREs, including virtual appearances and depositions

Key Takeaways
• Simplified, Transparent Rules: Less duplication, clearer expectations, and better access for all parties
• Modernized Processes: Improved rules for GALs, experts, and contempt proceedings
• Call for Public Input: Comment deadline is April 25, 2025, with a public hearing on May 1, 2025

📞 Connect with Us

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.

Navigating a high-conflict divorce can feel like an overwhelming and unrelenting storm, especially when emotions run high and communication breaks down. In this episode of Divorce at Altitude, we revisit our sitdown with Liz Merrill, a seasoned mediator, divorce coach, and someone who has personally navigated the challenges of a high-conflict divorce. Liz offers invaluable insights into how to cope with the complexities of high-conflict divorces and maintain your mental and emotional wellbeing throughout the process.

In this episode, Liz and Amy delve into:

• What is a High-Conflict Divorce?: Liz breaks down the defining characteristics of high-conflict divorces and the scenarios that can arise when you’re dealing with an individual who exhibits high-conflict behaviors.
• Recognizing the Red Flags: Liz shares practical tips on how to identify the signs that you may be dealing with a high-conflict individual—someone who thrives on chaos and emotional escalation.
• Strategies for Maintaining Mental and Emotional Wellbeing: Drawing from her own experiences, Liz offers powerful advice on how to take care of yourself emotionally and psychologically during a high-conflict divorce. From setting realistic expectations to managing your stress, she provides a roadmap for prioritizing your mental health.
• The Role of a Mediator in High-Conflict Divorce: Liz explains how mediators can be a vital ally in these situations, helping both parties reach a fair resolution despite the intense emotions at play.
• Techniques for Diffusing Conflict: Liz discusses an array of techniques aimed at diffusing volatile situations, including how to establish and maintain healthy boundaries, communicate effectively under pressure, and manage conflict without losing your composure.
• Supporting Children Through High-Conflict Divorce: Liz highlights the importance of protecting children from the emotional fallout of a high-conflict divorce. She provides guidance on how parents can shield their kids from conflict and support their emotional needs during the process.

If you're interested in learning more or working with Liz on mediation, divorce coaching, or other divorce-related resources, you can find her at Open Space Mediation.

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 rebroadcasted episode of Divorce at Altitude, we revisit a powerful conversation with attorney Lisa Zeiderman, Managing Partner at Miller Zeiderman LLP. Lisa offers her expert insights into the often-hidden world of financial abuse and manipulation within marriages, sharing how it can manifest and how individuals can protect themselves. With her deep experience in financial forensics, Lisa brings both a calculated and compassionate approach to understanding these sensitive issues.

In this episode, Ryan and Lisa discuss the fine line between financial naivety and deliberate abuse within marital finances, exploring how the dynamics of financial control can unfold in relationships. Topics include:

• Proactive Strategies for Safeguarding Your Financial Interests: How to protect your assets and secure your financial future when facing a divorce.
• The Art of Discovery in Divorce Proceedings: Lisa outlines the critical steps in uncovering hidden assets, income, and financial discrepancies during the divorce process.
• Choosing the Right Attorney: Why it's crucial to select a lawyer who is not only skilled in legal matters but also a savvy financial strategist who can navigate complex financial issues.
• The Role of Forensic Accountants & Valuation Experts: Lisa emphasizes the often-underestimated value of forensic accountants and valuation experts, who can uncover financial discrepancies and provide the clarity needed to ensure a fair settlement.

Whether you’re currently navigating a divorce or simply looking to understand the financial dynamics at play, this episode offers valuable tools and strategies for anyone facing the challenges of financial abuse in divorce.

If you missed this episode the first time, be sure to tune in for this insightful conversation on protecting your financial well-being during divorce.

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, renowned divorce mediator and therapist Karen McNenny joins Ryan and introduces her innovative approach to divorce, which she calls “divorce-gasmic.” Karen emphasizes transforming divorce from a destructive event into a constructive process, encouraging us to rethink how we view the end of a marriage.

We explore:

• The societal fears that keep couples trapped in unhappy relationships
• Positive co-parenting practices that celebrate children’s milestones post-separation
• The roles of divorce professionals, such as lawyers and consultants, in guiding clients through emotional challenges while focusing on legal clarity
• The complexities of dating during divorce and managing differing paces in new relationships
• Strategies for blending families and introducing new partners, particularly when children are involved
• Managing new relationships on social media and ensuring children’s well-being is prioritized

Karen shares insights on fostering family harmony, emotional resilience, and the importance of communication and mediation to ensure a smooth transition through and beyond divorce. You can get more information and listen to Karen on her own podcast, the Good Divorce Show™.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating or contemplating divorce, offering practical advice for maintaining family stability and prioritizing emotional health.

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 insightful episode, Ryan and Amy walk through key topics that often come up in the early stages of divorce in Colorado, including what the state considers when determining alimony, parenting responsibilities, and the impact of who files first.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• Does the reason for divorce matter in Colorado?
• Does it matter who files for divorce first?
• How are custody and parenting plans decided?
• When is it okay to start dating after a divorce?
• How is property division determined?
• Do I need to move out immediately during the divorce process?
• How is alimony calculated, and how much will I have to pay?

Join Ryan and Amy as they provide clarity and guidance on these important questions, helping you feel more prepared for the journey ahead.

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, host Ryan Kalamaya is joined by divorce coach Karen McMahon to discuss how personal growth and financial resilience can empower individuals during divorce, particularly for high-achieving executives and entrepreneurs.

Episode Highlights:

• Role of a Divorce Coach: Karen shares how coaches help clients manage emotions, clarify priorities, and stay productive during high-stakes divorces.
• Setting Boundaries for Co-Parenting: Learn to establish temporary arrangements and negotiate boundaries in shared living to minimize conflict.
• Financial Expectations: Understand the importance of working with financial experts to navigate complex disclosures and set realistic expectations.

Key Discussions:

• Choosing the Right Team: Karen and Ryan discuss the roles of attorneys, financial experts, and coaches to help you select the best professionals.
• Delegating Effectively: Tips for managing time and costs by leveraging your team's expertise while focusing on priorities.
• Navigating Negotiations: Insights into the differences between divorce negotiations and boardroom deals, emphasizing emotional intelligence and curiosity.

Practical Takeaways:

• Use B.I.F.F. for Communication: Keep messages brief, informative, firm, and friendly to prevent conflicts.
• Establish Priorities: Clarify non-negotiables and flexible areas to streamline decisions.
• Pause Before Reacting: Take a moment before responding to emotionally charged messages to avoid impulsive reactions.

This episode offers actionable advice for anyone navigating divorce. Check out Karen’s previous appearances on Divorce at Altitude in Episodes 55, 119, and 143 for more insights.

📞 Connect with us:
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kalamayagoscha
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kalamaya-goscha/
• Phone: 970.315.2365
• Email: info@kalamaya.law

Thank you for tuning in! If you found this episode valuable, consider sharing it with someone who could benefit. Don’t forget to follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube for more insights on divorce and child support 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.