Social media outlets such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn (the list goes on) have become an integral part of many of our lives. So much time is spent checking these apps and keeping up with lives of our “friends” that we follow. Some people use social media to share pictures of their children or their travels. Others use it as a source to vent or ask for advice on certain issues. One thing is true: social media apps have begun to have an effect on family law cases, especially divorces.
Information found on these apps can be used in court, and you can be sure that the other party and his/her attorney will be checking all of your social media apps in the midst of a family law case. So, what should you do to avoid any issues with social media while your case is pending?
- Don’t share anything you would not want the world to see. It’s that simple. If you need to vent, meet up with a friend or family member rather than sharing it on social media.
- If you have problems with that, simply STOP using social media while your case is pending. Note: This does not mean you should delete your accounts. This could be destruction of evidence, which can be used in court.
- Don’t jump the gun and change your relationship status or post an announcement about the situation. This is a slippery slope and can lead to questions, comments, and unnecessary conversations on social media for everyone to see. Make sure it is a mutual or private decision to make any updates.
- Do not bash your ex. It’s just never a good idea to do this on social media, especially during a divorce or family law matter.
- Do not overshare about what is going on in your case. You will not want your ex, friends, or even co-workers to see what is going on in your personal life. Keep your social media drama-free.
- Do not incriminate yourself. Think twice before sharing a major spending/shopping spree or a crazy #singlelife photograph if you are in the midst of a custody or financial court battle.
- Do not showcase new relationships. Though you may be excited to share the news about your new relationship status, hold off until the divorce or family case is over to update your status. You do not want information used against you if you are posting pictures with a new significant other, which can potentially have an effect on child and financial-related issues.
- Do not complain about your parental duties.This could work against you. Avoid making comments or posts about how raising your children alone will be difficult, even if it will be. Remember that all of these posts can potentially be used in court.
Going through a divorce or family law matter is extremely difficult for everyone, and everyone has their way of coping with it. Don’t let social media get in the way of that, and if you have issues with that, simply stop using it while your case is pending. If you have questions about what you can and cannot post or share on social media, contact one of our experienced attorneys to discuss these issues and also how to protect your own privacy.
