As social media becomes increasingly ubiquitous, keeping friends and family members updated on important life events seems natural. Unfortunately, the content you post on Facebook, Twitter, and similar platforms can have a direct influence on your life offline—impacting job prospects, criminal cases, and even divorce proceedings. No matter how innocuous a social media post may seem, your spouse’s divorce lawyer may be able to use it against you.

How Social Media Can Affect a Divorce

Evidence of Financial Resources

Perhaps a friend invited you along for a trip or you received a bonus at work after your financial disclosure forms were filed. Posting images or updates about these expenditures can trigger an investigation into your finances with potentially disastrous results. Even if you aren’t attempting to hide resources from your spouse, the judge only has to find the accusation credible for it to affect your divorce settlement.

Arguments in Child Custody Disputes

In general, courts prefer to establish joint child custody arrangements, but if your spouse can mount a convincing argument that you’re an unfit parent, they may be granted full custody. Not only can admissions of illicit or dangerous activities persuade a judge that your children are better off with their spouse, but negative statements you make can create the impression that your home will be a toxic atmosphere.

Security Concerns

You may feel confident that your privacy settings will keep any content you post out of the courtroom, but this is often not the case. Your spouse’s divorce lawyers may be able to access content through a variety of ways, including mutual friends or acquaintances willing to share information. The only safe approach to social media is to stay off of it entirely until the conclusion of your divorce proceedings.

Divorces are emotionally difficult and legally complex, but a skilled legal professional can make the process easier. For over 20 years, Michael A. Newland Law Office has provided legal assistance to clients throughout the Hamilton, OH, area, protecting their rights and striving for the best possible outcomes. For more information about their family law services, visit the website today, and call (513) 887-9595 to speak with an accomplished divorce lawyer.