How Can Social Media Impact Divorce Proceedings?

 Posted on January 26, 2023 in Divorce

Whether we like it or not, social media has become a significant part of life for millions of people living in the United States. People of all ages use apps such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, to provide insight into their daily lives as they freely share what is on their minds or what they are up to at any given time. But unfortunately, it has become so easy to post on social media without thinking about what you are posting. As a result, it is common for people to post things on social media without considering the possible consequences of what they are posting.

You may be surprised to learn that social media can play a significant role in divorce proceedings. That is why if you are getting a divorce, it is essential to tread very carefully when posting anything online. In this blog, we will look at the divorce topics that may be affected by social media posts. Additionally, we will look at other notable ways that social media may affect your divorce. Finally, if you are looking to get a divorce from your spouse, it is important to hire knowledgeable legal counsel to help ensure you follow the process correctly so you can be well on your way to beginning your new life.

What Type of Divorce Issues Can Be Affected by Social Media?

It is not uncommon for a spouse to use social media as evidence against their spouse during divorce proceedings. Issues that can be impacted by a seemingly innocuous social media post may affect topics like child custody, property division, child support, and other issues. In contrast, it is also not uncommon for people going through a divorce to use positive social media posts as evidence that is favorable to themselves.

What Are Some Notable Ways Social Media May Affect a Divorce?

Social media can give friends or even total strangers a detailed look into someone’s personal life, which is why social posts can come back to bite the person who initially posted the content. Furthermore, social media may impact divorce in many ways, including the following examples:

Evidence of irresponsible behavior – If a divorcing parent is trying to paint themselves as the perfect parent in court, yet their social media account shows them engaging in binge drinking, drug use, and around-the-clock partying, this will likely hurt their child custody case, since the posts indicate they are an irresponsible parent.

Evidence of reckless spending – If someone getting a divorce tries to portray themselves in court as destitute, yet their social media account features them going on extravagant vacations or making lavish purchases, this may significantly affect issues like asset division or spousal support.

Should I Cut Out Social Media Entirely?

That depends. If you enjoy social media and do not believe it will hinder your case, then it should be fine to continue using it cautiously. That being said, it is better to air on the side of caution and refrain from posting new content or even consider deleting your social media accounts when you are going through divorce proceedings. If you cannot live without social media and are not willing to get rid of it for the duration of your divorce, then post content assuming your spouse will see it. Do not give them any ammunition to use against you in court. Post wisely!

Contact an Arlington Heights Divorce Attorney

If you are getting a divorce, do not feel you need to approach the situation alone. The compassionate Rolling Meadows divorce lawyers with Law Offices of Donald J. Cosley will work tirelessly to ensure your rights are protected and your best interests are always put first. Call 847-253-3100 for a free consultation.

Source:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/better-divorce/202111/marriage-divorce-and-social-media-recipe-disaster