Why in all-party consent states it is legal to share texts or emails sent to you, while it is not legal to record conversations without a consent?
Exactly — you’ve noticed one of the quirks. Here’s why texts/emails vs. recordings are treated differently under California (and other all-party consent states) law: 📱 Texts / Emails If someone sends you a text or email, it becomes part of your records too. The law generally says you can show, forward, or print it , because you’re just sharing something you lawfully received. There’s no “expectation of secrecy” once a message is delivered — the sender knows you can keep it, show it, or even use it in court. 🎙️ Recordings A private conversation is considered ephemeral and protected unless all parties consent to making a copy. California Penal Code §632 makes it illegal to “intentionally record” a confidential communication without everyone’s consent. The focus is on the act of creating the recording , not just possessing it afterward. That’s why secretly taping someone is illegal, even though repeating what they told you is not. ⚖️ Why the difference?...