There is a large portion of the world that uses social media on an everyday basis. Often times, they use it to make posts updating loved ones about different things going on in their life. This may be anything from daily events to major celebrations. While it can be fun to share the ongoings of your life with others, there are some things that are better kept to yourself. This includes any details regarding your divorce case. Sharing this information or speaking badly about a spouse throughout the proceedings has the potential to negatively affect the outcome.
How Can My Social Media Affect My Divorce?
There are several ways that a single post on social media can impact a divorce. Certain words, actions, or even pictures can be misconstrued and twisted to be used against you in court. Recent studies showed the following:
- 81% of all divorce attorneys found social networking information that was later presented in court as evidence
- 66% of divorce lawyers use Facebook as a primary evidence source
- ⅓ of divorce actions begin with affairs that happen online
Bad Social Media Habits to Avoid
It is best to just not post on any social media accounts at all when you are going through a divorce. This ensures that no content is available to be used against you in court. If you choose to post anyway, it is important to air caution when doing so. Some things you should avoid doing on social media during a divorce can consist of:
- Speaking poorly about your spouse or ex-spouse online. Comments, threats, and criticisms can lead to a poor outcome.
- Deleting social media activity. Many people believe that deleting a post on social media makes it go away forever, however, this is not the case. Social media cannot be permanently deleted, which means disparaging content can still be found and used in court. Deleting the posts can even be seen as an inference of guilt.
- Posting pictures or talking about alcohol and/or drug use. Simply posting a picture of a beer or a glass of wine can be twisted and used in court.
- Discussing new relationships. It is important to keep any romantic relationships under wraps until the divorce is official. Otherwise, the details of it could be used as proof of an affair.
- Letting friends post about your life. Friends often have opinions of their own about a divorce. These opinions should not be aired online, as the information can hurt your case.
- Sharing your location. While people like to check-in at fun locations, places such as bars, clubs, and casinos may be used against you in court.
Contact our Firm
If you require strong legal representation for matters related to divorce or family law, Haber Silver Russoniello & Dunn is here to help. We proudly represent clients in Morris County and throughout the state of New Jersey. Contact our firm today to schedule a consultation.
