Q: Is reading saved messages violating no-contact order in Maine?
I am currently under a court order that prohibits any direct or indirect contact with a specific individual. I recently received messages from this person on a messaging app, which expressed that they missed me. I took screenshots of these messages to save them for court. Is reading these messages considered a violation of the no-contact order, given that I have not responded or engaged in any conversation?
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A: Reading the messages would not be considered contact, but any response would be contact.
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A:
In Maine, a no-contact order typically prohibits any form of communication with the individual it is issued against, including direct or indirect contact. Even though you didn’t respond to the messages, simply reading them could be seen as a form of indirect contact, which might still violate the terms of the order. Courts usually interpret no-contact orders broadly to include not engaging with the individual in any way, including viewing their messages.
By saving screenshots, you are documenting the messages, which may be useful in court, but it’s important to ensure that you are not engaging with the person in any way, even indirectly. If you feel that the messages may be relevant to your case, you might consider having a lawyer or legal professional assist you in handling the situation appropriately.
It’s crucial to tread carefully in this situation, as even unintentional violations can lead to legal consequences. If you have any doubts about how to proceed, it’s best to consult with an attorney to ensure you are fully compliant with the no-contact order and avoid any potential violations.
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