Going through a divorce is undeniably difficult. It’s a big upheaval for everyone involved and is an often emotive and challenging time. It can be tempting to post your upset and frustration on social media, especially if you’re finding it hard to get the support you need from your close friends and family.
While this might feel like a good idea at that moment, it can actually be damaging to you and your legal case in the long run. It’s important to understand the risks of sharing the details of your divorce on social media before you post.
Your posts can be used against you
As the divorce process is ongoing, your ex-spouse’s attorneys may look at your social media with the view of using the contents against you during the proceedings.
A few ways in which the posts can be used against you are:
- If you advertise that you’re making large purchases or have come into some extra money, this can be used by the other side in justifying why you should have to pay a higher amount of spousal or child support. Alternatively, if this is you, it can also be used to show why you shouldn’t receive what you think you’re entitled to.
- When you use your posts to be overly critical of your ex-partner, this can be used to suggest that you are unreasonable and could leave you with an unfavorable arrangement. It can look like you’re unwilling to negotiate and mediate a situation.
- Posting about your dating life can also be used against you. Your ex-spouse can argue they are unhappy for your children to be in your custody if they find details suggesting your new flame presents a danger to the kids.
Going through a divorce does not mean that you should have to put your life on hold. It’s a good idea, however, to make sure you protect yourself legally as you go through the process to make sure you receive a fair outcome in accordance with your rights and needs.