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Social media posts can complicate the divorce process

On Behalf of | Mar 3, 2021 | Firm News |

Those going through a divorce may endure some of the most challenging times in their lives. Spouses can feel relieved, hurt, angry and isolated all in the same day. These emotions can be powerful and prompt you to vent online, perhaps reaching out to family or friends or others in the community, such as co-workers or neighbors.

This sharing can feel cathartic in the moment, but it is generally a bad idea to share details of a broken marriage online. The circumstances surrounding each divorce is different, but these actions will often come back to haunt you, even if it is a post that does not involve venting so much as sharing.

5 reasons to be careful

These days, social media is a powerful platform, with opposing lawyers and even judges looking for digital clues about handling a case. Common missteps during a divorce include:

  1. Assuming privacy settings work: You may have unfriended your spouse, but it is still possible that others will respond or share posts meant to stay private.
  2. Assuming that the kids won’t hear: Parents getting divorce likely friended some of their children’s friend’s parents, who may discuss the post in front of their children. Suddenly a child may hear from friends at school that a parent cheated or of a divorce.
  3. Posting photos: Pictures of new cars or expensive trips may lead to questions about your finances if you are arguing over the division of assets or support. Posts of a big night out could lead to uncomfortable questions in court.
  4. Contradicting yourself: You may find that you published things online contrary to what you said in court. It may be as simple as an erroneous timeline or something more serious.
  5. Dating apps: Your profile or actions can get used against you in court so be careful.

Best to keep a low profile

Some may be excited to move on with their lives, but during such an emotional time, it is best for you and your family to keep a low online profile. If the temptation proves to be too much, it may be useful to delete accounts or remove the apps from your device. Those with specific questions or concerns regarding their spouses or their own online behavior can get additional answers by speaking with a family law attorney who handles divorce.

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