Divorce is a very personal and intimate process. A couple going through a divorce must navigate decades of financial records, insurance policies, deeds, and estate planning documents. Couples often rehash old grievances while they manage frayed emotions and a stressful legal process. Many spouses reach out to friends and family for support and companionship during this time, and often through social media.
Social media can bridge huge distances to help families and friends reconnect and share. Though social media might seem like a safe place to discuss private or emotional matters, its personal touch can make people forget how public their posts can be. When spouses turn to the internet to blow off a little steam about frustrations with their divorce, they risk compromising the legal process and their claims.
Avoid these 5 social media mistakes
Anyone personally involved in legal proceedings, like a divorcing couple, should refrain from posting the following on social media during negotiations:
- Disparaging comments: Some spouses may turn to social media to complain about their marriage. Though therapeutic, this behavior can compromise a case. If anything posted was untrue, the target might sue the poster for libel.
- Posting one’s location: Many spouses seek divorce to get out of a dangerous or abusive situation. Spouses who fear for their safety should refrain from “checking in” to locations on social media or posting about a scheduled event.
- Sharing with mutual friends: Couples married for a long time likely share many contacts on social media, both friends and family. Before posting, check who will see the post. A divorcing couple should separate their social circles and avoid sharing posts with mutual friends and in-laws.
- Sharing a night out: Many divorce proceedings involve accusations of infidelity or worse. Though sharing some fun pictures of a night out with friends seems harmless, a lawyer may attempt to convince a judge the post serves as evidence of deception or substance abuse.
- Leaving accounts open: The easiest way to avoid posting compromising content on social media is temporarily closing all accounts.
Questions about using social media during divorce? A lawyer can help
Spouses considering divorce find more success consulting with a local attorney familiar with Kentucky marriage laws. An attorney can offer advice on protecting one’s divorce suit, provide contact information for support groups and draw up comprehensive divorce agreements.
