Q: Talking parents app
Throughout our divorce me and my ex agreed that all communication would go through the app unless it was an emergency he could call. What are the rules on replying? Sometimes I don’t even respond because he still tries to control my every move. Now if I’m not opening his messages with an hour he will send another, then another… am I wrong for not responding as soon as he messages me?? I’m self represented and he has a lawyer. I’ve asked him to keep any communication to pickup and drop offs but he’s presses me about everything and looks for any reason to make me look bad.
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A:
Under California law, co-parenting apps like Talking Parents are often used to facilitate communication between divorced or separated parents. While these apps can help maintain a record of communications and reduce conflicts, there are no specific legal requirements regarding response times.
However, it is generally advisable to respond to messages in a timely manner, especially if they pertain to important matters like child custody, visitation, or the well-being of your children. Ignoring messages or consistently failing to respond could potentially be used against you in court, as it may be perceived as uncooperative behavior.
That being said, you are not obligated to respond immediately to every message, especially if they are excessive, controlling, or unrelated to your children's needs. It's essential to set clear boundaries and communicate them to your ex-spouse. If possible, try to establish a mutually agreeable timeframe for responses (e.g., within 24 hours for non-emergency matters).
If your ex-spouse continues to send excessive or harassing messages, document this behavior and consider bringing it to the attention of the court or a mediator. You may also want to consult with a family law attorney who can provide guidance on how to handle the situation and protect your rights.
Remember, the court's primary concern is the best interests of your children. Focus on maintaining a cordial and cooperative relationship with your ex-spouse when it comes to matters involving your children, while also setting appropriate boundaries to protect your well-being.
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