As frustrating as a separation or divorce may be, it’s important to think carefully about venting any of your frustrations over social media. Even one simple message on Facebook or Twitter can have a devastating impact, both legally and financially, on your divorce proceedings. Here are some tips to ensuring you don’t cross the line with social media.
1. Remember that it’s called social media for a reason. Even if you have your ex-spouse and his or her friends blocked, posting anything on a social network means it can be easily accessed and possibly used against you in your divorce case.
2. What’s done can’t be undone. Even posts that are later removed can still be found, so it’s important to be conscious of what you’re posting, even those things that seem unrelated to your relationship or your divorce can impact a court’s decision. “For example, if parents are sharing custody and their 15-year-old kid posts a picture drinking alcohol at a party on his or her own Facebook page, that photo can be used against the parent who was technically “on the clock” as evidence of unfit parenting,” says this useful article from the Huffington Post.
3. Beware of the story your accounts are telling. Social media rarely depicts the full picture, and the limited view it can paint can hurt you when told in court. If you’re requesting full custody of your children, a social media account that only includes references to parties or alcohol can show a skewed image to the judge.
4. Control who is posting what. Many social media outlets allow individuals to tag and identify their friends in posts and pictures. If you’re uncertain about what kinds of posts or pictures you might be tagged in, consider changing the security settings on your accounts so that you have to approve any references before they go public. That way you can ensure only posts that you approve can be seen.
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