Social media has become an essential part of everyday life. Those who are considering or going through a divorce are likely to be active on social media. While it's possible to remain active on social media throughout the divorce process, there are special considerations that you should keep in mind if you want your divorce to go as smoothly as possible.
How Can Social Media Impact Divorce?
Even if you take precautions by making your social media accounts private or limiting who can view your profile, you need to be aware that what you post is still susceptible to being shared as evidence in your divorce. The same goes for posts that you've removed. Remember, once something is online, it can never truly be deleted.
To protect yourself and ensure a simpler resolution to your divorce, consider the following before you share anything online:
- Your custody rights could be impacted: One of the most important matters to resolve in a divorce is how to handle child custody. After all, children are the most important thing in a parent's life. Therefore, some parents will do anything and everything to ensure they can protect them and their rights to be with them. Sharing posts of photos of you acting irresponsibly, like drinking alcohol or using drugs, could be used to prove you are not fit for custody.
- Your spending habits can be seen: Another vital aspect of the divorce process is determining financial matters like child support, alimony, and property division. In a contentious divorce, couples often struggle to come to an agreement on how to resolve these matters. Suppose you start posting about the latest things you've treated yourself to, like a lavish vacation, expensive hobbies, or buying brand new clothes, jewelry, watches, etc. Social media posts like this could show reckless spending behavior and, consequently, negatively impact the financial settlement you receive.
- Everything you share can be used against you: Getting a divorce is a very emotional process, but it's important that you do not share your feelings about it on social media. In the heat of the moment, you may want to say something negative about your ex, but in the end, it will only hurt your divorce. It can paint you in a negative light, not only to the judge but also to your friends and family. Only post things that you would be okay with sharing directly with the judge on your case. When in doubt about whether you should post something or not, remember silence is golden.
- A photo is worth a thousand words: As the old saying suggests, a picture can say a lot about you or your situation, especially during a divorce. Sharing photos on social media tracks your location and time and shows who you are with - all of which can be used against you.
Protect Your Rights
While it may be challenging to refrain from completely using social media during your divorce, it is important to keep in mind how it may impact your case. Be careful of what you post, and when in doubt, keep it to yourself.
To make the divorce process as simple as possible, it is in your best interest to work with a qualified attorney, like Harmon Caldwell. Our team will expertly guide you in your Atlanta divorce and assist you with making intelligent decisions that protect you and your family's best interests.
Call our Atlanta attorney today at (404) 882-7263 for more information and to schedule a consultation.