Whatever you share on social media during your divorce can significantly impact the proceedings, potentially swaying some decisions against you. As such, you should be extra careful with what you put out there during this sensitive time, as social media content may be admissible as evidence in divorce court.
Here are ways your social media activity can harm your interests during a divorce and how to avoid shooting yourself in the foot.
It can paint you in a bad light
Your online posts can negatively portray you to the court, which may affect various aspects of the divorce settlement. For instance, posts showing expensive purchases or lavish vacations may influence the court’s perception of your financial status and affect money-related decisions like alimony, child support, and property division, including claims for dissipation.
Similarly, social media activity that depicts reckless or irresponsible behavior could be used to question your suitability as a parent. Negative comments or posts about your ex may be seen as evidence of hostility and unwillingness to co-parent, which could sway custody decisions.
It may attract unwanted attention
As much as divorce court proceedings are public, airing your business out there only leads to further scrutiny. It can intensify the emotional stress of the divorce, especially on the children, who can be affected by the negative attention or comments your posts may attract.
Essential tips on using social media during divorce
If possible, consider taking a break from social media until the divorce is finalized. It can help save you a lot of trouble. Otherwise, avoid posting anything related to your divorce, limit your privacy settings and consider how each post might be interpreted by others, including your ex-spouse’s legal team or a judge.
Reaching out for legal guidance early on in the divorce process can help you avoid such seemingly minor blunders that can have far-reaching effects on your divorce settlement.
