Custody Disputes and Parental Control over Social Media Usage

 Posted on September 13, 2024 in Adoption

Texas recently enacted a law giving parents authority over their children's social media usage and requiring parental approval before a child can create their own accounts. The newly legislated ability to restrict their child’s online behavior, monitor their accounts, and set usage limits is meant to address concerns about the mental health and online safety of young people. However, it adds another layer to custody disputes for divorced parents who disagree about this but share decision-making responsibilities. If you and your ex do not see eye to eye on your child’s online profiles, speak with a knowledgeable Austin, TX family law attorney to learn more.

How Does the New SCOPE Act about Parental Control over Social Media Use Include?

Officially called the Securing Children Online through Parental Empowerment (SCOPE) Act, this new law enables parents to compel social media companies to give them access to their children’s accounts. They can also enforce restrictions on how much time their children spend online and the content they can view.

The SCOPE Act’s Impact on Custody Disputes

In custody disputes, parents might argue over how much control they think they should exert over their child’s social media use. If one parent wants stricter limits but the other feels the child deserves more freedom and trust, the SCOPE Act could be a point of contention.

In addition, since this law was only recently passed but could affect couples that have been divorced for a while, court orders might need to be updated to reflect it.

Social Media Control and Custody Disputes

Divorced parents and those involved in divorce proceedings might disagree about how they should control their child’s social media use. The court will need to consider whether strict parental control is in line with the child’s best interests. Judges can be called on to balance one parent’s concern about the dangers of social media use against the other parent’s belief that restricted use can harm the child’s social development.

Overall, the new law aims to enhance child safety online, but it can further complicate custody disputes. In some cases, legal intervention is needed to ensure that it is implemented in a way that serves the child’s best interests.

Contact a Travis County, TX Child Custody Lawyer

Disagreements between parents about controlling their child’s social media use underscore disputes about larger issues related to the child’s freedom and ability to make her own choices. When these issues are part of custody disputes during divorce proceedings, emotions and tensions can run high. A skilled Austin, TX family law attorney can help you navigate these matters while keeping your child’s best interest as a top priority. Call Powers Kerr & Rashidi, PLLC at 512-610-6199 to schedule a consultation.