It has been said that an email is like a “virtual handshake” between two people. It is a way to introduce yourself to someone and it speaks to your professionalism. Therefore, it is important to create an appropriate e-mail address when you begin any legal process if you do not already have one.

In family law cases, your e-mail address is important because it can be used more than just to communicate confidentially to your counsel. You may be ordered to communicate by e-mail to the other party on your case and the e-mails may ultimately be presented in court. This means that the court would have a chance to review the e-mails and your e-mail address.

Below are a few “do not” and “do” tips in regard to e-mail addresses:

DO NOT: set up an e-mail address that insults, incites or patronizes the other party. Creating an e-mail address that does any of the above makes you look foolish, immature and could negatively impact your case. For example, if custody is an issue in your case and your e-mail address insults your ex (the other parent of your child) a Guardian ad Litem or Judge may construe this as the insulting party’s inability to have productive co-parent communication with his/her ex. Also, do not set up an email that negatively reflects upon you such as referring to inappropriate activities.

Examples of inappropriate emails: ihatemyex@emailserver.com
ilovedrinkingandpartying@emailserver.com

DO: set up a personal e-mail address that is your own (i.e. not shared with a new spouse or partner and not your work e-mail address). The easiest way to accomplish this is to make your e-mail address your name, in some form, and to be the only person who uses that account.

If you already have an appropriate email, make sure you change the password at the start of the divorce and there is no way to for your spouse to access same. Email has become the primary form of communication with all parties, including your attorney, in family law cases. It is important to make sure that this form of communication is protected and private.

The takeaway point of this blog is that you understand that your e-mail is likely to be shared and made public during your family law matter. Therefore, it is important to make sure that it is professional and noninflammatory. If you wish to have an attorney help guide you through your family law matter and help you conduct yourself in an appropriate manner throughout your proceedings, please call our office to schedule a free 30 minute initial office consultation to discuss your matter with one of our attorneys.