Millions of people around the world use social media as a way to stay in touch with family or friends. Some people even use it as a means for therapy, airing their dirty laundry for the world to see. While that is your right to do when you are in the middle of a divorce proceeding, you should really think if that is the best option. Going onto Facebook and posting anything regarding the divorce action or other party is probably not the wisest choice.
Be Mindful of What You Are Posting
How many times have you scrolled down your feed and see a friend posting a picture of them standing in front of an expensive store or restaurant and you thought to yourself, “how can you afford that right now?” When you are in the middle of a divorce trial, financials are an important piece of the puzzle and one it could hold up the preceding if the other party thinks you are hiding something. The best way to avoid this is to refrain from posting anything that could raise any questions at all.
Friend or Foe?
Always know who your true friends are and who are not. You may think you can post whatever you want on social media and it will never get back to the other party. Think again — you may both be friends with some of the same people, and they may just be sending screenshots of your post to your soon-to-be ex.
Impact on Your Case
Social media can have a huge impact on the outcome of a case. Judges do not like people taking to social media to “out” the other party or air their dirty laundry. A client can be the one doing everything right, following the temporary orders to a T, but then they get upset over something and turn to Facebook to post about it. The opposing party sees the post, prints it out, takes it to court, and uses it as evidence. Now the judge rules in favor of the opposing party.
Keep it Private
The bottom line is, no matter how angry you are or how badly you want everyone to know what is going on, keep it private. Posting any information regarding the legal battle you are in has potentially negative effects to your case. You should take the necessary precautions to avoid any possible unintended consequences.
If you have more questions about using social media while going through a divorce, contact a divorce lawyer, like a divorce lawyer in Arlington, TX, today.
Thanks to Brandy Austin Law Firm, PLLC for their insight into how social media can play a role in your divorce case.
