Social media is so much more than a way to connect with friends. It’s a marketplace, a forum, and even a source of live news coverage. The digital rabbit hole can also serve as a kind of escape for those who are going through an emotionally trying time. For example, seeing what people around you are up to can give you the motivation to pursue your own passions. For this reason, individuals who are in the process of ending their marriage often turn to social media for comfort; however, they should be wary of posting online at all. Here are just a few reasons why a divorce attorney will advise you to stay off Facebook and Twitter during the proceedings.

3 Reasons to Stop Using Social Media Until Your Divorce Is Finalized

1. Putting Anything in Writing Could Hurt Your Case

Are you familiar with the Miranda rights? If you replace the word “say” with “post,” it quickly becomes obvious why people should stay off social media during any kind of legal proceeding. If anything you post can and will be used against you, it is best to avoid posting at all. Even seemingly innocuous material, like a night out with friends, could be misconstrued and used to prove you are unstable in some way, depending on just how vindictive the opposing party is. 

2. Nothing Is Private, Regardless of Your Profile’s Account Settings

If you think it’s okay to post about the divorce simply because you have changed the privacy settings, think again. As soon as something is published on the internet, there is no way to control how it spreads. All it takes is one mutual friend to screenshot a post that does not paint you in the best light to destroy the entire case. For example, if the friend ultimately shares the derogatory post with your ex, he or she could argue that you are unwilling to cooperate and should not have a joint custody arrangement.  

3. Your Emotional Health Is in Jeopardy

Even those who checked out of their marriage long before filing can feel a tinge of sadness or even jealousy when they see what their ex is up to after the divorce. Checking out your ex online may not affect the proceedings directly, but if the wounds are still raw, it could impact your emotional health in general. When people are especially sad or upset, they are more likely to make decisions based on emotion rather than reason, and doing so could ultimately hurt your best interests during the case in some way. 

If you are planning on ending your marriage and want legal advice from a seasoned divorce attorney every step of the way, turn to Payne Law Office. Based in Lincoln, NE, this firm helps clients resolve all kinds of family law issues, from child custody disputes to contentious divorce proceedings. Their team knows issues pertaining to domestic relationships are highly personal, which is why they take a compassionate and attentive approach to every client. Call (402) 477-7246 to schedule a free consultation with a divorce attorney today.