Abuse Using Technology

Although your state’s laws may not require the judge to order how parents communicate while co-parenting, the judge might order a co-parenting app if there’s a restraining order in place or if you convince him/her that it’s necessary. However, some judges may be reluctant to issue an order requiring that parents use technology to co-parent for various reasons, including:

• judges may:
  
  • not be familiar with technology;
  • not believe they have the power to make that type of order; or
  • find it inappropriate for some other reason, including if the subscription cost to use it is unaffordable for one or both parents. Note: Some companies might have fee waiver programs for those who cannot afford the cost or you might search for a free co-parenting app so that cost isn’t a barrier.

To think through whether or not using these types of apps may work for your situation, you may want to talk to a domestic violence advocate or a lawyer who specializes in custody and domestic violence issues.

You can learn about general custody laws in your state on our Custody page by selecting your state from the drop-down menu.