It might be surprising but what you post on social media can affect your divorce proceedings. For this very reason, it is important that anyone planning on getting divorced carefully reviews and starts to assess what he or she posts on his or her social media profiles.
Divorce lawyers know firsthand that social media can play a huge role in the outcome of several issues. Simple posts on social media have turned out to have a huge effect on a case. Working closely with a knowledgeable divorce attorney in Riverside, CA can ensure that this doesn’t happen to you.
How to Avoid Social Media Mistakes
There are plenty of ways that a person can avoid social media mistakes while going through a divorce. One of the most obvious is to stop posting about what’s going on in one’s private life.
It’s also possible to make social media posts private instead of public. However, be careful because there is always the possibility that a former spouse can access their ex’s information.
How Social Media Can Affect a Divorce
When opposing counsel discovers social media information that may hurt your case, the information might be considered admissible and used against you in court. For example, a parent who posts a picture of his or her child in an inappropriate setting or with illegal substances may have a significant effect on pending issues in the divorce action .
When the adults involved post negative comments or create posts attacking their spouse’s character, the court can say that they are trying to smear the other party or even allege that a parent is trying to negatively influence the children from the other spouse.
Most of what you post online is public and can be seen by anyone, anywhere, and at any time. Keep in mind that during a divorce, officers of the law turn to social media accounts to look for evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Social Media and Divorce
Can social media posts be used as evidence in my divorce case?
Yes. If opposing counsel discovers relevant social media content, it can be considered admissible and used against you in court, particularly around issues like parenting decisions or a spouse’s character.
Should I make my social media accounts private during a divorce?
It’s a reasonable precaution, but privacy settings aren’t foolproof since a former spouse may still access your information through mutual connections or screenshots shared by others.
What kinds of posts are most risky during a divorce?
Posts showing a child in an inappropriate setting, negative comments attacking a spouse’s character, or content suggesting undisclosed assets or a different lifestyle than what’s been represented in court are among the riskiest.
Can attorneys or law enforcement use social media to investigate a case?
Yes. Both sides in a divorce, as well as officers of the law in some circumstances, may review public social media activity for information relevant to the case.
What’s the safest approach to social media during divorce proceedings?
Minimize posting altogether, avoid discussing your case or your spouse online, and check with your attorney before sharing anything that touches on the divorce, your finances, or your children.
If you’re going through a divorce contact the experienced family law attorney in Riverside, CA to discuss ways to avoid social media mistakes. Connect with us for a consultation.