Don’t Let Your Social Media Use Hurt Your Divorce Case

Forty years ago, when somebody had big news to share, they would call their friends and loved ones or write them letters. Today, social media sites like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram provide a convenient way to announce something that a person’s family and social circle can see.

And when someone is going through divorce, they may have a lot to talk about. But sharing everything about your divorce on social media is not a good idea. In fact, you could accidentally hurt your case for a reasonable division of assets or child custody arrangement. That is why many divorce attorneys in the Toledo area advise their clients to stay off social media until their divorce is final.

Common Social Media Blunders During Divorce

Mistakes that people can make on social media include:

• Posting photos and videos that contradict their statements in court, such as about their financial resources, e.g., posting a picture of a new car after requesting spousal support
• Posting explicit pictures of their ex, known as “revenge porn”
• Harassing their ex’s social media accounts
• Liking posts or accounts related to illegal activity such as drug use or gambling

Keep in mind that the people viewing your posts may be more than your family and friends. Your ex and their attorney could be monitoring your online activity. They will use anything relevant to your divorce as evidence against you in court or as leverage in settlement negotiations. What might feel like healthy venting about your divorce in the moment can reduce the amount of money you walk away with or cost you time with your kids.

Keep Divorce References To A Minimum

If you cannot log off your social media accounts during your divorce, avoid discussing the proceedings as much as possible. Keep those conversations to private texts, phone calls and in-person visits.