Under normal circumstances, social media provides a great way to stay connected with friends and family and keep them updated on all the details of everyday life. However, if you’re going through a divorce, posting pictures and status updates can be a potential pitfall to your case. This is why it’s common for divorce lawyers to strongly recommend that their clients discontinue using social media until a settlement has been reached and a dissolution of marriage is granted. Here are some of the biggest reasons to limit your online activity while your divorce is pending.

Why It’s Best to Stay Off Social Media When Going Through a Divorce 

Your Posts Can Be Used Against You 

It has become standard practice for court cases to involve evidence obtained from social media, and petitions for divorce are no exception. It’s likely your partner’s divorce lawyer will be looking for anything you post that will present their client in a more favorable light than you. Even if it’s taken out of context, any photos and statements you share online can be used against you when it comes to determining the division of assets, child custody, and support orders. 

Your Children May Be Affected 

If your children are old enough to be on social media as well, there is a chance they will see whatever you post about the divorce and their other parent. Using your social networks as a platform to vent can make it even more difficult for your kids to cope with the situation.

They may begin to feel like they’re being put in the middle of your dispute and forced to choose a side. Not only will this have a negative effect on their well-being, but it can also impact your custody case. Judges aren’t approving of any actions a parent makes that can damage the relationship between their kids and the other parent. 

Your Privacy Is Not Guaranteed 

Many people falsely believe their social media content is kept hidden once the privacy settings are turned on. The truth is privacy is not guaranteed. Your connections may publicly share your content or tag you in things that can harm your case. Thus, even if your soon-to-be ex-spouse and their divorce lawyer don’t have direct access to your profiles, they may find a way to view your activities.

Ending a marriage is one of the most complicated experiences you can go through. To ensure you don’t make any mistakes that could seriously damage your case, turn to the divorce lawyers at O'Neill Law Firm, LLC for sound legal advice and effective representation. Backed by 20 years of experience, they know what it takes to dissolve a union with minimal conflict and stress. They will help you navigate the divorce process as smoothly as possible while protecting your rights and fighting to make sure you receive the settlement you’re entitled to. Call their La Crosse, WI office at (608) 519-3551 to schedule a consultation, or visit them online for more information about the family law services they offer.