You can’t say that!
In family law proceedings, making disparaging comments about the other party or anyone involved can be detrimental and potentially lead to negative consequences, including court orders and costs.
Making derogatory or disparaging comments about the other party, the family law system, or people involved can be seen as disrespectful and can negatively impact your case.
A parenting order can prohibit a parent from denigrating or criticising the other parent when talking to the child, or from permitting the child to remain in the presence or hearing of someone denigrating the other parent.
Social media posts should be carefully considered, as they can be used as evidence in family law proceedings. Avoid posting anything that could be seen as disparaging or derogatory.
Making disparaging comments could lead to court orders against you, such as restraining orders or orders to cease certain behaviours.
If you are found to have made disparaging comments, you may be ordered to pay the other party’s legal costs.
In some cases, you could be ordered to pay damages to the other party.
Some examples of Disparaging Comments include,
- “Your child’s father is an idiot.”
- “Your mother is a fool.”
- “They are a bad parent.”
In short, avoid negative comments and refrain from making any comments about the other party or anyone involved in the proceedings. Focus on facts, when communicating about the proceedings and avoid emotional language.
If you are unsure about what you can and cannot say, seek legal advice from a family lawyer. Call MSA Lawyers Managing Director, Margaret Girardi, for a confidential discussion or use our contact form here.
