Tips for Making Certain Your Social Media Presence Doesn’t Negatively Affect Your Divorce Proceedings
Have you considered the potential impact of your social media exposure on a divorce proceeding? What are the potential ways that Facebook and other social media outlets can be detrimental to your interests during a marital breakup? Are there ways that social media can be a benefit during the dissolution of a marriage?
A Regular Social Media Presence—Generally a Bad Idea during a Divorce
Access to and use of social media are almost universal. Studies show that more than 60 percent of all people worldwide use social media on a regular basis, with the average daily use exceeding two hours per person. For many, it’s the most powerful and meaningful way to stay connected. When you’re involved in a divorce proceeding, though, it’s in your best interests to avoid social media, if at all possible, and to otherwise keep your social media presence to a minimum.
Why? Primarily because your social media activity can be admissible in court. You may think your posts on social media are harmless, but you’ll never know how your ex’s attorneys will present the evidence. Pictures of an innocent meeting with a member of the opposite sex can be introduced as evidence of marital infidelity. Vitriolic posts may be used to challenge your access to your children.
What Should You Do about Social Media Accounts When You Are a Party to Divorce?
The best thing you can do with your own social media accounts is temporarily or permanently deactivate them. Don’t give yourself the option to post on your own social media page or on someone else’s. That way, you’ll never have to worry that your personal social media activity will be used against you in court.
If you have friends and family who are active on social media, ask them not to post any pictures of you. You should also ask them not to engage in posts or discussions about your divorce with others on their pages. Your goal should be to have no presence whatsoever on social media.
If you find it impossible to stay off social media, try to refrain from any discussion with anyone about your divorce, your children or certain aspects of your lifestyle. Before you post anything, ask yourself the question “What would happen if this post was introduced as evidence in my divorce proceeding?”
Contact Experienced Texas Family Law Attorney Chrysandra S. Bowen
At DTX Family Law, we always put your interests first. We know that the legal process can be complex and confusing, and we’ll carefully explain your rights and options, as well as your chances of success, so that you can make good decisions for you and your family. Chrysandra is board-certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, an honor earned by less than one of every ten family law attorneys in the state. To schedule an appointment with a proven and effective Texas family lawyer, visit our new website or call our offices at 940-566-0606.
Handling Divorce and Family Law Matters throughout Denton and the surrounding communities, including Denton, Collin, Wise, Tarrant and Cooke counties, and the cities of New Hope, Lowry Crossing, Fairview, Farmersville, Gainesville, Lindsay, Rosston, Oak Ridge, Callisburg, Muenster, Valley View, Myra, Woodbine, Marysville, Bulcher, Decatur Bridgeport, Rhome, Boyd, Chico, Paradise, Aurora, Alvord, New Fairview, Lake Bridgeport, Arlington, and North Richland Hills