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

Children First Family Law

Welcome to *Children First Family Law*, a podcast dedicated to transforming the way families navigate the challenging landscape of divorce. In an industry too often focused on litigation, financial battles, and a war-like approach, we advocate for a radical shift in priorities—putting the well-being of children at the forefront. Join us as we explore how to handle divorce in a way that protects children from the collateral damage of parental conflict and legal battles. We offer resources, insights, and expert advice to help parents understand how to manage divorce without destroying their children’s future. By highlighting the flaws in the current system and providing a roadmap for a more compassionate approach, we aim to become thought leaders in this space, calling for change within the professional landscape of family law. We’ll discuss crucial topics like collaborative and amicable divorce, parental alienation, and navigating the complexities of domestic violence and child abuse within the legal system. Through candid conversations and expert guidance, *Children First Family Law* equips families to emerge from the brokenness of divorce with their children’s well-being intact—just like a beautiful stained glass window crafted from shattered pieces. If you’re asking yourself, ”How can I ensure my children aren’t destroyed by my divorce?” or ”Why does my lawyer always push for litigation?” this podcast is for you. Tune in, and let us guide you toward a healthier, more hopeful future for your family.

  1. 1d ago

    095: Understanding Family Law from the Seat of the Bench with Judge Robert Lung

    In this episode of the Children First Family Law Podcast, Krista sits down with the Honorable Judge Robert Lung to explore the nuances of family law. With decades of experience as a district court judge in Colorado, Judge Lung offers invaluable perspectives on how parents can work together to shape their children's futures. This episode emphasizes parental cooperation in making decisions about their children's lives rather than relying on a judge who lacks personal insight into their circumstances. Judge Lung discusses critical issues such as human trafficking, childhood trauma, and resilience. Drawing from his extensive work with various professionals, including military, medical, and law enforcement communities, Judge Lung underscores his commitment to these pressing topics through his roles on significant councils addressing human trafficking. You’ll hear Judge Lung recount his path from law school in Ohio to his current position in Colorado. Krista and Judge Lung highlight the influence of mentors and personal stories, reflecting on how focusing on children's well-being in family law cases can lead to better outcomes. They also emphasize the empowerment of parents to reach agreements during divorce proceedings, placing the best interests of their children at the forefront. The episode delves into the intricacies of co-parenting, parental rights, and the effects of trauma on child advocacy. Central themes include conversations about parenting time, challenges for non-offending parents, and the role of judicial input in enhancing the family court system. Judge Lung reiterates maintaining a nurturing environment for families, stressing mentorship, open communication, and continuous improvement efforts by the Colorado Judicial Branch. Join us as we navigate these critical issues with Judge Robert Lung and discover ways to foster a nurturing environment for families facing family law challenges. In this episode, you will hear: The importance of parental cooperation in family law to avoid judicial decisions by strangers Judge Robert Lung's career journey and experiences in Colorado's family court system Trauma awareness, human trafficking, and child advocacy Empowerment of parents to reach agreements in divorce proceedings Challenges of co-parenting, parental rights, and maintaining a supportive environment for children Continuous improvement in Colorado's family courts Anecdotes highlighting informed decision-making and the pitfalls of unnecessary litigation Resources from this Episode www.childrenfirstfamilylaw.com All states have different laws; be sure you are checking out your state laws specifically surrounding divorce. Krista is a licensed attorney in Colorado and Wyoming but is not providing through this podcast legal advice. Please be sure to seek independent legal counsel in your area for your specific situation.  Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

    095: Understanding Family Law from the Seat of the Bench with Judge Robert Lung

  2. Aug 10

    094: Can You Kidnap Your Own Child? The Hague Convention, International Custody Battles & the Saeed Abedini Case

    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.

    094: Can You Kidnap Your Own Child? The Hague Convention, International Custody Battles & the Saeed Abedini Case

  3. Aug 3

    093: What Every Parent (and Family Lawyer) Should Know About IEPs and 504 Plans

    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.

    093: What Every Parent (and Family Lawyer) Should Know About IEPs and 504 Plans

  4. Jul 27

    092: Top Reasons Parents Lose Custody in Colorado — And How to Protect Your Parenting Time

    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.

    092: Top Reasons Parents Lose Custody in Colorado — And How to Protect Your Parenting Time

  5. Jul 20

    091: Coercive Control, Accountability & Custody — A Deep Dive with Nil Buckley

    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.

    091: Coercive Control, Accountability & Custody — A Deep Dive with Nil Buckley

  6. Jul 6

    090: Who Keeps the Dog? Navigating Pet Custody in Divorce with International Expert Karis Nafte

    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.

    090: Who Keeps the Dog? Navigating Pet Custody in Divorce with International Expert Karis Nafte

  7. Jun 29

    089: Balancing Evidence-Collection and Peacekeeping when Proving Child Safety Issues: An Interview with Author and Divorce Survivor Cheryl Palmar

    Join Krista on the Children First Family Law Podcast to explore the compelling story of Cheryl Palmar, a best-selling author in the United States and Australia who transformed her life despite the turmoil of a troubled marriage. In this episode, Cheryl shares her journey from heartache to empowerment, revealing the emotional and legal battles she encountered while navigating a marriage with a highly functioning alcoholic partner. Along the way, however, she found that with careful planning and evidence collection, she was able to accomplish and amicable divorce with a full settlement despite the potential that her case could have ended up as yet another story of toxic litigation. Cheryl's candid narrative offers insight into the complex process of securing a future for herself and her daughter. She discusses the importance of gathering evidence, seeking legal guidance, and the strategic steps she took to ensure their safety. Her experience highlights the necessity of having a strong support system and the courage required to initiate change. Beyond the legal aspects, Cheryl offers insights on healing and co-parenting. Her reflections on therapy and personal growth provide hope to others facing similar challenges. Cheryl’s book, "Erased: Exiting a Toxic Relationship," serves as a guiding light for those feeling trapped in toxic relationships, inspiring a path towards a healthier and more empowered future, and highlights ways to get the protections you need and want for your children even in ugly, risky situations through a careful approach to preparing for and executing your case. In this episode, you will hear: Cheryl Palmar's journey from a marriage with a functioning alcoholic to empowerment and healing. Emotional struggles and legal strategies in protecting her daughter and navigating divorce. Insights into gathering evidence, privacy concerns, and the importance of legal advice in substance abuse situations. Revelations about the balance of collecting evidence and the ability to approach a case peacefully and without extensive litigation – all through the power of incontrovertible facts, not allegations. The role of co-parenting, focusing on unity and the well-being of their child despite past conflicts. Discussion on the importance of therapy and personal growth after divorce. Cheryl's experience with sobriety testing agreements to ensure her daughter's safety during parenting time and decision making. Resources from this Episode www.childrenfirstfamilylaw.com "Erased: Exiting a Toxic Relationship" by Cheryl Palmar available online on Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble Amazon: https://a.co/d/dnrbUMY Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/erased-cheryl-palmar/1144672044?ean=9781923123199 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.

    089: Balancing Evidence-Collection and Peacekeeping when Proving Child Safety Issues: An Interview with Author and Divorce Survivor Cheryl Palmar

  8. Jun 22

    088: Screens, Smartphones, and Divorce: What Every Co-Parent Needs to Know with Kris Perry

    Childhood is being reshaped by screens, and co-parents are often on the front lines of that change. In this episode, we sit down with Kris Perry, Executive Director of Children and Screens: Institute of Digital Media and Child Development, to unpack what the research really shows about kids, tech, and two-home families. We explore how smartphones, social media, gaming, and even emerging AI companions affect children’s brain development, mental health, and capacity for real-world connection. Kris explains how conflicting technology rules between households can heighten conflict, confuse kids, and undermine healthy boundaries — and how co-parents can realign around child-centered guidelines. Listeners learn why struggle, experimentation, and face-to-face interaction are irreplaceable for healthy development, and why relying on devices or chatbots as “easy” solutions can quietly erode those experiences. The conversation offers research-backed, practical takeaways to help parents, co-parents, and family law professionals create consistent tech expectations that truly prioritize children’s long-term well-being. In this episode, you will hear: Biggest misconceptions parents have about kids and technology   Age and stage differences in screen use and brain development   Screen time vs. “what’s happening online” and why both matter   AI chatbots, digital companions, and the risks of kids anthropomorphizing machines   Dopamine, addiction-like patterns, and the impact on attention, mood, and joy   Resources from this Episode https://mailchi.mp/7391d300e044/children-and-screens-names-cali-gov-senior-advisor-as-first-executive-director  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.

    088: Screens, Smartphones, and Divorce: What Every Co-Parent Needs to Know with Kris Perry
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Welcome to *Children First Family Law*, a podcast dedicated to transforming the way families navigate the challenging landscape of divorce. In an industry too often focused on litigation, financial battles, and a war-like approach, we advocate for a radical shift in priorities—putting the well-being of children at the forefront. Join us as we explore how to handle divorce in a way that protects children from the collateral damage of parental conflict and legal battles. We offer resources, insights, and expert advice to help parents understand how to manage divorce without destroying their children’s future. By highlighting the flaws in the current system and providing a roadmap for a more compassionate approach, we aim to become thought leaders in this space, calling for change within the professional landscape of family law. We’ll discuss crucial topics like collaborative and amicable divorce, parental alienation, and navigating the complexities of domestic violence and child abuse within the legal system. Through candid conversations and expert guidance, *Children First Family Law* equips families to emerge from the brokenness of divorce with their children’s well-being intact—just like a beautiful stained glass window crafted from shattered pieces. If you’re asking yourself, ”How can I ensure my children aren’t destroyed by my divorce?” or ”Why does my lawyer always push for litigation?” this podcast is for you. Tune in, and let us guide you toward a healthier, more hopeful future for your family.

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