Try These 3 Tips Instead
In our technology-driven era, texting has taken over the more traditional methods of communication and plays an interesting role in divorce cases across the nation. Many people assume that their personal messages are secret and confidential, but when spouses uncover the truth about extramarital affairs, phone and SMS conversations can be used as evidence. Ever since Tiger Woods’ very public scandal in 2009, over 90 percent of divorce attorneys have seen an increase in clients submitting text messages in an attempt to sway a judge or jury in their favor. Texting has since been dubbed “the digital lipstick on your collar.” Even though text messages, emails, and other forms of electronic communication are now acceptable forms of evidence in the courtroom, they should only be used when absolutely necessary. For example, if you have received messages containing threats of physical violence, verbal abuse, admissions of wrongdoing, texts to children with hurtful comments about the other parent, texts denying a parent from seeing the children, or messages proving infidelity, you should catalog the conversations and give them to your attorney to strengthen your case. On the other hand, you should remember that if you are fighting for custody of your children and you send your former spouse a text about one of the contentious issues, the message could be used as evidence in court to catalog your residual anger. While one heated text may not be a very strong piece of evidence, it could be used in conjunction with other exhibits to prove a point against you. School has started. Youth sports are in full swing. Work is crazy. Food has become more about necessity than enjoyment. All of this can only mean one thing: Fall has begun. The crazy schedules this time of year can make it tough for parents to keep their heads on straight; making it through the insanity sometimes feels more like survival than life. But there are tactics you can employ to turn the tide and find more time for yourself. Tag Team There’s no reason to try to do everything on your own. The phrase “It takes a village to raise a child” exists because managing the stressors of life requires help. A great place to start is by establishing car pools with a parent group you trust. You can alternate drivers weekly, which provides the opportunity for you to focus your attention on other priorities — or if you’re lucky, have some freedom. The Right Tool for the Job Technology makes organization easier and more accessible than ever. By using a tool like a shared calendar, you can coordinate the entire family’s schedule so you never miss a beat. And apps like Mealime and MealBoard give you the ability to whip up food that is cost-effective and delicious.
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work While you’re busy trying to rally the troops at soccer practice, the scene at home resembles a horror movie. Laundry is piling up, food is spoiling in the fridge, and the dust bunnies around the house now have names. Housecleaning is a part- time job in its own right. The only way to stay on top of duties around the house is to work together. A chore chart with clear responsibilities is a great place to start. Whether you have one child or eight, everyone is capable of pitching in. You can have all the organizational abilities in the world, but the best way to manage life’s madness isn’t by directing day-to-day tasks; it’s by managing stress. Instead of using these tools to control life, look at them as a way to free up time so you can decompress and enjoy the things you love.
CAN TEXT MESSAGES BE USED IN THE COURTROOM? The Digital Lipstick on Your Collar
While collecting messages can help with a case, be sure to only share relevant messages so to help maximize efficiency in the handling of your matter. Additionally, remember that the laws of each state differ, meaning that some states do not require the spouse seeking a divorce to provide justification (proof of wrongdoing or infidelity). The state of Florida is a no-fault state, and so communications seeking to impute fault or guilt to one party over the other may not be relevant.
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