If you’re going through a contentious divorce, social media may seem like a natural way platform for keeping family and friends updated. Unfortunately, even seemingly innocuous posts can be used against you, potentially impacting the judge’s property division and child custody decisions. This is why divorce attorneys encourage their clients to use social media carefully until their cases are resolved.

Do:

Assume everything you post will be public.

You may have your accounts set to private, but your spouse’s divorce attorney may still be able to see your posts, pictures, and comments. Until your divorce is finalized, assume that the judge presiding over your case will be able to see anything you upload, post, or share.

Disable your accounts.

If your divorce is especially difficult and you’re not sure what you can post safely, simply disabling your accounts entirely may be the best approach. This approach also keeps your friends and family from tagging you in content that might damage your case. However, avoid deleting your accounts, which might be considered destroying evidence.

Don’t:

Share negative posts or comments.

No matter how bitter your relationship with your spouse may be, avoid calling names or posting negative comments, even in jest. Your spouse’s divorce attorney can use these statements to show that you’re creating a hostile environment, which may impact the judge’s child custody and support orders.

Allow friends to tag you.

The content your friends and family post can also reflect negatively on you. For instance, if a friend checks in to a bar and tags you, your spouse may claim that you have a drinking problem. These legal maneuvers are often unpredictable, so it’s best to turn off tags and encourage others not to post about you at all.

The end of a marriage is always a difficult experience, but the Fulcher Law Firm is dedicated to making the process as seamless and stress-free as possible. Their divorce attorney has been serving families throughout North Carolina’s Stanly and Montgomery counties for over 20 years, and will work relentlessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Visit their website for more on their wide range of family law services, get updates and news on Facebook, or call (704) 984-6060 to schedule your initial consultation.