When smartphones first hit the mainstream, Apple had a saying it used for its then-new app store: “There’s an app for that.” When it comes to managing a shared visitation schedule between divorced parents, there is now an app (in fact, a few of them) for that.
Apps Help Parents with Time Sharing Agreements
New apps are being created for both Android and Apple platforms that propose making shared parenting, including managing drop-off and pick-up times, coordinating holiday and visitation schedules, and communicating with your ex-spouse, easier and more efficient.
These apps have a number of useful features, and often require a monthly fee. The apps will notify each parent of when the other arrives at specific locations (although the apps do not share a parent’s real-time location data with each parent, for privacy reasons). That way, a parent can make sure he or she is in the right place at the right time to pick up or drop off a child.
Many apps have in-app texting and messaging. Some of the apps are so advanced that they use artificial intelligence that can identify hostile, profane, or angry texts from one parent to another. The apps will send a warning (for example, “are you sure you want to send that?”) to give parents an opportunity to avoid sending things in haste or in anger.
Many of these apps connect parents to therapists or counselors, as well, and will allow parents to upload and store family law documents such as settlement agreements or expenses.
Judges Ordering App Usage More Frequently
These apps have become so useful, many judges are actually ordering that they be used in family law cases, often ordering one parent or both to pay the monthly costs. This can be helpful in “he said/she said” disputes over visitation.
However, some are concerned that many of these apps have ways for judges to access user’s information directly from the software developer. This is unusual; in a typical family law case, the parties get information from each other and the judge rules on the information. The judge does not independently seek out and obtain evidence to decide a case. Even if the judge did have access, the judge would normally have to inform the parties that he or she is obtaining evidence. It is unclear whether a judge would have to do so when accessing information from a court-ordered app.
Privacy is a Concern
There are privacy concerns, as well, especially when judges order the usage of these devices. Some have equated these apps with ankle monitors or similar devices used in criminal law cases where probation officers are allowed to monitor the whereabouts of those on probation.
Because judges are ordering the use of the app five times more often than what some developers anticipated, divorced parents may want to get used to what the apps track and what they do not, and be prepared for the pros and cons associated with them.
Be prepared and know what to expect in your custody dispute. Contact The Law Office of Agnes Rybar LLC for help and guidance in your family law case.
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