Any number of issues can cause couples to reach an impasse in their divorce negotiations. Asset division, spousal support and child custody disputes are very common causes for Minnesota couples to experience an acrimonious marital dissolution. As a result, individuals may take measures to gain an advantage in the proceedings.

As of late, modern technology has caught up with divorce: More and more often couples are relying on spy gadgets to determine what their spouse is doing and saying. Relatively abundant, affordable electronic equipment has allowed individuals a very easy opportunity to discover information that could cause their spouse to lose their child custody claim.

In one particular case, a man discovered that a small recording device had been sewn into his son's jeans by his soon-to-be ex-wife. She used the device to record conversations the man had with their son, in addition to attorneys and therapists. Eventually he discovered the device and decided to take legal action against the woman. He took her to civil court and received a sizable settlement for the invasion of his privacy.

Divorce attorneys throughout the country have seen a noticeable increase in the use of domestic spying. Though these techniques may seem beneficial to gain leverage of some kind, divorce professionals agree that it's not a good idea. A spontaneous, heat-of-the-moment decision made by an otherwise rational person can end up being very costly.

It's understandable that divorcing parents might have unresolved anger and want to gain custody of their children. Yet by taking matters into your own hands and doing something that is potentially illegal, you could actually be doing more damage to your child custody claim than anything else. If you are caught spying on your spouse, there is no reason a family court judge will not hold it against you when an arrangement is made.

Even though the thought of sitting down to negotiate amicably may seem impossible, it may be the best long-term solution for you and your family. In many cases, children benefit from time spent with both of their parents. Knowing this, it is important to act rationally and work to protect the best interests of your child in child custody and divorce negotiations.

Source: The Houston Chronicle, "Spy gadgets infiltrate divorces as domestic snooping booms," Mike Tolson, April 29, 2012