During family law proceedings, when children are involved, it is prudent that you minimize conflict between you and the other parent.  The best way to communicate during divorce, legal separation, paternity or other family law proceedings is by E-mail.   If you communicate by E-mail, it keeps an accurate record of the conversation between you and the other party.   It will break the “he said, she said” during the proceedings as to what was communicated.  Also, it minimizes the conflict.   Here are a few general rules of E-mail that may assist you in communicating with the other party.

Rule 1 – One subject per E-mail.  If you have several things to communicate about, then write several emails.  If you have a doctor’s appointment for your child, an educational decision, and a notification for a vacation, then you should write three separate E-mails.  This way, all of the subjects will be covered.  Everyone will be on the same page regarding what was communicated about that subject.

Rule 2 – Keep your emails brief.   It is not necessary to write long E-mails.  Keep them brief and to the point.

Rule 3 – Respond in a timely manner.  You should check your E-mail one time per day.  If you need more time to research the subject, then send an E-mail that says you received the E-mail and will get back to the other person within a specific period of time with a substantive response.

Rule 4 –   The most important Rule – Be Polite.  Remember, you are not the only person who is going to read this E-mail.  Most likely, the E-mails are going to make it to both attorneys, and the judge.   Further, you want to reduce conflict with the other party.  After all, you will have children with the other parent for the rest of your life. While it is understandable, you are not in a good place with the other party at this point, you should look at your communications with the other person as business.  Say “please” and “thank you”.  Keep your E-mails civil.  No name calling.

This blog should be used for information purposes only.  It does not create an attorney-client relationship with any reader and should not be construed as legal advice.  If you need legal advice regarding your own particular situation, please feel free to contact Sheri D. Shepard at (480) 461-5332 or at www.udallshumway.com.