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Is there anything that can be done about abusive emails from a non-custodial parent?
Anonymous2 views3 answers
We currently have a custody/visitation order with an attachment stating that all communication (including text and email) be conducted in a respectful and business-like manner. Non-custodial parent bombards me with emails/text message with the subject title that appears he's writing about our daughter, but the body of the message is filled hateful words, derogatory name-calling, blaming that bringing our son into the world has given him so much misery that he cannot maintain employment, etc. What can I do to get such abusive communication to stop?
I'm sure receiving such communications can be annoying. However, he's doing you a favor, and himself harm, in regards to providing you with evidence of his hostile attitude and other problematic behavior. If you find yourself in court again disputing any custody related issues, and his behavior is relevant to the court's decision, he has provided written proof of such behavior. In other words, it's won't simply be your word against his.
Print and store all those texts for future reference.
In the meantime, don't respond in kind. You can simply ignore his rants, and instead, respond only about important issues related to the kids. When you respond, be overly polite and professional.
Keep this thought in mind: If you give people enough rope, they'll usually hang themselves with it.
Aruna P. RodrigoBankruptcy AttorneyRancho Cucamonga, CA ·
Yes, you can file a contempt proceeding against him for violating court orders. You can also file a RFO to reduce visitation due to his failure to follow court orders. If it arises to the level of violence or threats, you can consider filing a Restraining Order. But talk to an attorney to discuss your options. Also consider next time you are in court to request the court to order that both parents use familywizard.com or talkingparents.com to communicate rather than personal texts or e-mails. These programs are designed to prevent these types of issue. Talk to an local family law attorney.
Richard Forrest Gould-SaltmanFamily Law AttorneyLos Angeles, CA ·
The best things you can do are:
1) (and this is the most important one) DON'T ACT LIKE HIM. Keep YOUR communications to HIM appropriate.
2) Ignore his c**p. Reacting to it simply encourages him to do more. Get a copy of "Joint Custody With a Jerk". Read it and follow the advice.
3. Keep copies of his e-mails to you, , 'cause it SOUNDS like you'll be in court with this guy again, sooner or later.
