How Text Messages, Emails, And Social Media Posts Can Cost You In Family Court

These days, most people communicate through some form of written communications. Whether is a text, and email, or a Facebook post, these communications can spell trouble for anyone in family court. Many people are under the impression that these types of communications can never be brought to court. This is not necessarily true. Some of these communications do in fact make their way to a judge, and this could really make or break a PA Family Court case.

We understand that sometimes people say things they don’t mean. It happens. The problem is that when these types of statements happen in the written form, it is not hard for a party to print them out and bring them to Pennsylvania Family Court. Because things like email addresses and online usernames show up on the message, it is almost impossible to dispute who the message came from.

Most PA family law clients are well aware of the risks of posting on social media. However, it is not just status updates that can get people in to trouble. Any form of communication on social media can be dangerous, including pictures. It is surprising how often clients will show us posts, messages, or pictures form the other party that could be used as ammo in court. Although there are exceptions to what is allowed into court, many times, these communication fall outside of these exceptions and are allowed to be presented as part of the case. Sometimes, these communications can completely change a case because of the nature of the message.

The best way to avoid this issue is to control what types of written communication are sent out. While something like a status update on Facebook that allows a person to vent may seem harmless, it might come back to be a big mistake. Do not let yourself get brought into conversations where regrettable things may be said. Whatever is on the line in court is too important to risk for the sake of a message to your ex. When it comes to messages and social media posts and PA Family Law cases, you are better safe than sorry.