Social media is a part of everyday life for many people. When separating from your spouse, however, discuss it with your divorce attorney before tweeting or uploading a new photo. There are risks involved, even when you’re engaging in what you think is a harmless conversation. Here are points to consider if you plan to log on and chat about your marital situation.

How to Handle Social Media During a Divorce

1. Be Careful About What You Post

Your divorce attorney may tell you to stay off social media completely when going through the proceedings. If you do post, don’t say anything about your spouse, in-laws, friends, children, or romantic interests. This can complicate child support and custody arrangements, restraining orders, and property division. Think of divorce as similar to a criminal law case: anything you say can be used against you in court or at the negotiating table.

2. Consider Changing Your Passwords

While passwords are meant to be kept a secret, many spouses share their social media credentials with each other. During a divorce, your spouse can post comments or photos that could damage your case or access personal and private messages to friends. Even if you didn’t share the passwords with your ex, they can still access your accounts if you logged in on one of their devices. It’s wise to create new passwords everywhere.

3. Don’t Delete Your Account

Courts have ruled that information posted on social media is a matter of public record. However, that doesn’t mean you should delete your accounts. You don’t want to give the impression that you have something to hide, and the accounts are still subject to the discovery process during the divorce. If you want to avoid posting without deleting the account, consider uninstalling all social media apps from your phone and removing the bookmarks from your computer. 

For more help navigating social media during a divorce, consult the team at Lane, Felix & Raisbeck CO, LPA. Serving the Greater Cincinnati area for more than three decades, the divorce attorneys fight for their clients’ rights and protect their interests throughout the difficult process. With more than 60 years of combined experience, they have a strong record of success in complex and unique circumstances. Before you post on social media again, visit their website for more about their practice, and call (513) 922-7700 to schedule a consultation with a divorce attorney.