Before You Hit Send…

Technology has afforded us with new ways to communicate. Text messages, email, video conference and social media provide us with an immediate way to share information with friends and family.

However, if you are thinking about filing for divorce or modifying a previously entered court order before you hit send, you should seriously think about the ramifications of pushing that send button on a text message or social media post.

In Georgia, all divorce and domestic relations actions allow both parties to conduct what is known as discovery. Simply put, the parties can request from the other party documents and other tangible things relating to the divorce action. This includes text messages, email and social media posts, even if you restrict access to these posts.

This means that any text, email or social media post you have sent could be viewed by your spouse, opposing counsel and the judge who is hearing your case. Your texted or posted words and photographs could end up hurting you in negotiations or at trial. Before you hit send, you should ask yourself, “is this something that I want to see blown up on a large exhibit at a trial”? If not, then you should probably refrain from sending it.

If you are contemplating divorce or other legal action, and have concerns over how text messages and social media posts may impact your case, then you should speak to a licensed attorney. We are here to help you. Feel free to contact our office to set up a consultation with one of our attorneys.

Spooner & Associates

Spooner and Associates, P.C., based in Suwanee, GA, is a firm of skilled litigators who are aggressive in the courtroom. However, when it is in our client’s best interests, we can handle cases through negotiation or methods of alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation. Our experienced Gwinnett County attorneys help people in North Metro Atlanta solve their legal problems. In all of our cases, we determinedly represent our clients to get them results. Whether we are resolving a custody issue or a marital property issue related to a divorce, our lawyers are dedicated to the needs of each client.