Social Media & Divorce: What To Do & Avoid
Most of us use social media to share exciting life experiences and vent our frustrations. Depending on what is going on in your life, social media could actually be used to hurt you, especially if you are going through a family law dispute or divorce. Just as how you are warned that everything you say and do can be used against you in a court of law after being arrested, you need to be aware that everything you post can be used against you in family law court.
Imagine the scenario where you are currently vying for full child custody. Over one weekend, you decide to have a fun night out with friends enjoying alcoholic beverages. If you post pictures of your intoxication, your ex-spouse could show them to the judge to claim that you are irresponsible and unfit to be the primary custodial of your child, even if it was just a one-time event for entertainment and stress relief.
Best Practices for Social Media Use During Divorce
If you ask any divorce attorney, the first thing they will probably tell you about social media posting while you’re in the midst of a divorce or family law dispute is to simply turn it off. There was surely a time when you never went of Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and other social media apps – now would be the right time to relive those days. By providing nothing for your ex to spin to their advantage, you, in turn, gain a significant advantage; you may even want to start looking at their accounts to look for wrongdoing. Are they saying they won’t be able to afford alimony but are posting pictures of their new yacht? Screenshot and save it for your argument later!
Of course, if you understandably do not want to complete turn off your social media accounts, you can limit your usage and consult your attorney for more details about what should and shouldn’t be posted. For help from an experienced Long Island divorce attorney, the Hedayati Law Group P.C. can be your legal guides and representatives.
Contact our Long Island divorce lawyers for a free initial consultation today.
May 30, 2024 – Al Hedayati, Esq.