Social media is an integral part of many people’s lives. From posting personal pictures to sharing updates on our daily activities, social media platforms have given us a convenient way to stay connected with the world.
However, when you're going through a divorce, social media can cause more harm than good. Your personal posts can have a severe impact on your divorce proceedings, and it’s important to be careful about what you share online or even consider avoiding social media altogether.
Social Media Posts Can Be Used as Evidence
An angry post or comment on social media can be used as evidence in court, and this can negatively affect your divorce proceedings. It is imperative to avoid negative comments about your soon-to-be ex-spouse, their family members, or any other parties involved in the divorce. The words you post online can be accessed by your spouse's divorce lawyer and submitted to the court as evidence.
Social Media Can Affect Child Custody Arrangements
It is vital to be aware that your online behavior during your divorce can influence child custody agreements. Social media posts showing you engaging in risky behavior, using drugs, or partying excessively can decrease your chances of being granted custody of your children.
Even if you don’t engage in any such behavior, it’s possible for your spouse’s legal team to take your posts or mentions out of context. If they can successfully argue that you are an unfit parent or that your child would be at risk in your care, you may not get the custody or visitation you might have otherwise received.
Social Media Can Provide Your Spouse with a Strategic Advantage
Your spouse's divorce lawyer may examine your online activity to discover whether you're hiding assets or having an extramarital affair. A lawyer may also attempt to use your social media posts to guess your mental state, which may hurt your case. Therefore, you should abstain from posting anything related to your divorce or any activity that could be construed as questionable during the divorce proceedings.
Social Media Can Affect What Your Divorce Costs
If your spouse's lawyer discovers evidence of questionable activities on your social media pages, it could lead to longer court proceedings and an increase in the overall cost of the divorce. More time spent in the court of law means more legal fees, which can add up quickly. To avoid such situations, it’s better to stay away from social media during the divorce proceedings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s a good idea to stay away from social media when going through a divorce. Should you continue to remain active, it’s imperative to avoid sharing any negative posts, comments, or images about your ex-spouse or family members to avoid negative consequences.
By keeping away from social media, however, you can protect yourself and your loved ones during this challenging time. Remember, social media is not worth the cost during a divorce proceeding.
Contact Beatriz Zyne, P.A., for legal assistance for your specific situation.