Smartphones take place of private investigators in divorce

It is rare to come across someone who does not utilize some form of technology in his or her everyday life. Specifically, many people now have smartphones. From keeping track of appointments and important dates to paying bills and banking, smartphones have become entrenched in daily activities. However, their convenience may also help people other than the actual users. In fact, some people in Pennsylvania are using evidence obtained from smartphones as part of divorce proceedings.

A survey was recently conducted by the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. The results indicate that information from social media sites, such as Twitter and Facebook, are being used more frequently in cases involving divorce. In fact, all but 3 percent of respondents claimed to have seen increasing amounts of evidence discovered on wireless devices.

In addition to information from social media sites, modern evidence included text messages, emails and calling histories. Even apps, such as Snapchat and Find My iPhone, were used to provide evidence during proceedings. According to some, this evidence may be taking the place of private investigators as people are already carrying tracking devices, in the form of smartphones, with them.

The decision to seek a divorce, regardless of the cause, is often a difficult one. Many people in Pennsylvania agonize over such a decision, but they ultimately know that ending a relationship is often the first step to a brighter future. Once the decision has been made, seeking advice from an experienced attorney can assist in the pursuit of a fair resolution.

Source: Chicago Tribune, “Text messages, apps increasingly used in divorce cases”, Alejandra Cancino, June 9, 2015

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