Facebook & Dating Websites: Judge Orders Couple to Exchange Passwords

In what may become a controversial decision, a Connecticut judge has ordered lawyers representing a divorcing couple to exchange passwords to their clients’ Facebook and dating websites.

As reported in the Forbes blog The Not-So Private Parts, Judge Kenneth Schluger ordered the password exchange in the divorce of Stephen and Courtney Gallion. The judge's September 30 order states that the exchange should be carried out by the lawyers, and neither spouse may post messages purporting to be the other.

Stephen Gallion is asking for full custody of the parties' children. He believes, according to his  lawyer, Gary Traystman, that the social networking accounts will provide evidence about Courtney Gallion’s ability to take care of their children.