Family Solicitors

A judge sitting at the High Court in Leeds has ruled that a father must have contact with his young son – despite the fact he accidentally sent a sexually explicit image of himself by text to his ex-partner, which he had intended to send to another woman.

The Family Division of the High Court in Leeds heard that the man had attempted to maintain contact with his son – who was just a toddler – but his attempts were thwarted after his bisexual ex-partner received an image by text showing the man exposing himself.

The child’s mother and her new female partner decided that the text had been sent deliberately and ended the man’s contact with his son, who is nearly two.

The man claims he had been “sexting” another woman and the image was sent accidentally to his ex-partner.

Mr Justice Holman ruled that the child’s welfare was paramount – and he must have contact with his father. He described the sending of the image as “an incredibly unfortunate event.”

The case details were revealed in Justice Holman’s written ruling following the hearing.

Separated couples are usually advised to be careful about their use of social media when negotiating child contact and residence or a divorce settlement, in case comments made online are misinterpreted.

A confrontation between estranged partners which becomes public online can be used negatively in court proceedings or during mediation.

Duncan Lewis Family Lawyers

Duncan Lewis family lawyers can advise on family and childcare law, including divorce and judicial separation.

Duncan Lewis family lawyers can also advise on:

• Ancillary payments
• Child abuse
• Child abduction
• Child contact and residence
• Cohabiting
• Domestic violence
• International marriages.

For expert advice on family and childcare law, contact Duncan Lewis lawyers on 020 7923 4020.