Social media has taken the nation and the world by storm. It’s changed the way we do business, it’s changed the way we stay updated on our children’s schools, and most of all, it’s changed our personal lives.
If you’re like most people, you’ve posted pictures to Facebook, Twitter or Instagram about your life. You may have posted vacation photos, photos of your children’s birthday parties, and perhaps pics of your pets.
We’ve all done it because social media has become a way of life. A way to stay connected with friends and family from afar, no matter what part of the world they live in.
Social Media’s Impact on Divorce
If you are divorcing, you need to think twice about your posts to social media. Why can’t you be yourself? Because, virtually anything you post to social media, or anything you email or text for that matter can be used against you in court.
Just ask any divorce attorney and they will readily tell you that they use social media evidence in divorce cases.
If you’re planning a trip to Bora Bora, refrain from posting pictures of the trip on social media, especially if you’re arguing that you cannot afford to pay spousal support, or that you need it. Even better, hold off on the expensive trip until after your divorce is final.
You don’t want your friends to tag you in partying photos, and we don’t need to delve into the ammunition that can be obtained from dating websites.
If you have minor children, we do not recommend posting any pictures of you partying or alcohol, especially if child custody is an issue. These types of pics can be used against you; your spouse can paint you to be a “partyer,” and hence an irresponsible parent.
Watch What You Say
No matter how hurt you feel, you do not want to vent about it on Facebook, or any social media platform.
You cannot unsay something you’ve said on social media, and anything negative that you say can come back to haunt you, whether it’s from your ex-spouse, their attorney, the judge handling your divorce case, a family member, or a co-worker.
When you get a divorce, you don’t want to say anything on social media, or in an email or text to your ex that could harm you emotionally or legally.
The best way to handle emails, texts and social media during your divorce is to be cautious about what you say and to take the high road.
If you want to reach out to friends for support, instead of having a public chat on social media, pretend that it’s 1999 and arrange to meet them in person for coffee or a nice meal.
If you need a Los Angeles divorce attorney, contact us for a free consultation!