Social media is a fantastic tool for staying connected with family and friends. It allows us to celebrate big moments, share news stories, and express personal opinions. However, during a divorce, your online presence can have significant consequences. Your social media history can be used against you in court.
DOs of Social Media During a Divorce
Post Less or Not at All
In the midst of a divorce, it’s wise to limit your social media activity. Assume that everything you say online could be used against you. The less you post, the less material there is that could potentially harm your case.
Check Your Tone
Sarcasm and negative comments can be easily misinterpreted. Disparaging remarks can be used to paint you in a negative light, especially when children are involved. Maintain a neutral and respectful tone in all your online interactions.
Review and Clean Up Past Posts
Go through your social media history and delete any posts that could be seen as controversial or damaging. This includes anything that might suggest bad behavior or negative attitudes.
Audit Your Connections
Review the online groups you belong to, pages you like, and people you are connected with. Leave any groups or unfollow pages that could be seen as problematic. Disconnect from acquaintances who might cause issues.
Set Social Media Rules with Your Ex
Discuss and agree on how you will interact on social media moving forward. Decide whether you should limit interactions to significant milestones like children’s birthdays and graduations, or if it’s best to “unfriend” or block each other temporarily.
Ask Friends and Family to Stay Quiet
Request that family and friends refrain from commenting about your marital issues online. While they might mean well by defending you, it can often cause more harm than good.
Take Screenshots of Concerning Posts
If your spouse’s social media activity is troubling, take screenshots and share them with your attorney, not online. This can be done using Function+Prt Sc on most PCs or the power button + lower volume button on many smartphones.
Limit Your Exposure to Social Media
Seeing others’ happy posts during a difficult time can be distressing. Consider taking a break from social media if it’s making you feel anxious or lonely.
DON’Ts of Social Media During a Divorce
Don’t Announce Your Divorce Online
Avoid making any announcements about your divorce unless it’s a mutual decision with your spouse and the situation is amicable. Never discuss the particulars of your divorce proceedings online.
Don’t Bash or Embarrass Your Spouse
Refrain from making underhanded remarks or publically bashing your spouse. This can be seen as malicious and can negatively impact your case.
Don’t Drag Others Into Your Marital Issues
Keep your kids and other people out of your online disputes. This can create unnecessary drama and complicate the divorce process.
Don’t Fight with Your Spouse’s Friends or Family
Even if you’re provoked, do not engage in online arguments with your spouse’s friends or family. This can escalate tensions and reflect poorly on you.
Don’t Provoke or Threaten
Never post anything that could be interpreted as a threat or justification for violence. This can have severe repercussions in court, particularly in custody battles.
Don’t Post Potentially Damaging Photos
Avoid posting photos that depict you engaging in activities like drinking, partying, or gambling. Such images can negatively affect your divorce or custody agreement.
Don’t Discuss Financial or Medical Issues
Keep any discussions about financial matters, medical issues, or mental health off social media. These topics can be used against you, especially in disputes over custody or spousal support.
Social media can be a minefield during a divorce. It’s crucial to navigate it with caution and always think before you post. When in doubt, consult with your divorce attorney to ensure you’re not jeopardizing your case. At Jones Family Law, we’re here to help you through every step of your divorce process, providing the guidance and support you need to protect your interests both online and offline.
