I’m a criminal lawyer representing a client who is now navigating the family law system pro se. There’s a restraining order between him and his ex, as well as his 15-year-old child, based on what we believe are false allegations. The child doesn’t want the restraining order and is upset about it.
The dad and kid play an online game that matches players against each other. My client asked if it would be a violation of the no-contact order if they ended up matched. I told him I didn’t think it would be a violation since there’s no direct communication involved, especially if he doesn’t use the communication option. However, the other parent claims this is a violation. Has anyone dealt with similar situations regarding contact in video games? I found a post from years ago but it didn’t really apply.
As a family law attorney, I suggest that your client consults a family law attorney. It could potentially be a violation, depending on the language of the restraining order. In my state, family abuse restraining orders might consider any form of communication as a violation. It’s odd that the order doesn’t specify supervised or remote contact for parenting.
Your client should also consider opening a custody and parenting time case since the terms of a parenting plan typically supersede the restraining order.
Another option is to seek the appointment of a child’s attorney, as they can advocate for dismissal of the restraining order that was brought on their behalf.
I agree with azmodai2. The specifics of the restraining order matter a lot. If there’s any ambiguity, it’s best to consult a family law attorney to clarify the situation.