How to Save and Organize Text Messages in a Custody Case

If you anticipate a custody case in the future, it is important to begin preparing now. If you have documents and other evidence to support your version of events, the court is more likely to believe you. That belief can translate into trust and credibility, which are crucial in any custody issue.

If you have concerns about a custody issue in Pennsylvania, contact the LLF Law Firm. Our Family Law Team can help you gather and organize your evidence properly as you approach a custody issue.  Call the LLF Law Firm today at 888-535-3686 or use our online form.

Why Text Messages Are Important in Child Custody Cases

Increasingly, co-parents are communicating through text messages. They can reduce conflict and help avoid arguments. They are also helpful because text messages automatically provide documentation—they are written. In a custody trial or hearing, these text exchanges can establish behaviors, such as:

• The unwillingness of the other party to cooperate or abide by agreements.
• Threats or abusive communication by the other party.
• A pattern of thoughtful co-parenting on your side.

But to be of worth, they must be preserved, and in a way that is organized so you can find conversations quickly and easily.

Preserving Text Messages

There are several common ways to save text messages, including:

1. Screen Shots

You can preserve and organize text messages by taking a screenshot. Make sure to include a contact name, number, a visible timestamp, and the full conversation. Sometimes you must take a series of screenshots, so number them (the order will get murky if you don’t).

2. Export the Whole Text Threat

iPhone users can export and save entire iMessage conversations. For other phones, you can use apps that allow you to back up your text messages. These full exports are clearer and will be more credible.

3. Certified Records from Carrier

Certified records can be expensive and time-consuming to obtain, and often don’t include content.

Remember that you must preserve and organize your own text messages regarding custody issues.

Organizing Text Messages

To prepare for a court hearing or trial, it is important to organize your text messages. Some options include:

1. Organize Chronologically.

For more minimal communication, it may be helpful to have a chronological system of organizing text messages.

2. Organize by Issue.

In other instances, you may wish to save and preserve conversations by topic, particularly for high-conflict issues.

Whatever method you use, it is important that you do not alter, edit, or remove context from a text conversation.

What You Should Never Do with Text Messages in Custody Cases

As you work to preserve and organize your text messages, you should:

• Never delete text messages with the other party.
• Never edit or alter a text message. Yes, that includes cropping.
• Never take a screenshot without a timestamp. It is important to preserve context.

To establish and retain credibility with the judge, you must never alter or take a text message out of context.

How the LLF Law Firm Can Help

If you face a custody issue, it is vital that you save everything and you organize evidence in preparation for court. Our Family Law Team can help you organize and prepare so you feel ready and in control as you face this challenging time. Call the LLF Law Firm today at 888-535-3686 or use our online form, and we will reach out to you.