Many of us enjoy using social media and, chances are, you likely signed up for an account on multiple platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Social media is a fantastic way to feel connected to the world, maintain friendships, and network to form new ones. However, if you are in the midst of a divorce, it is crucial that you refrain from logging in and sharing your life with your followers. Doing so can put the outcome of your divorce settlement at risk.
How can something so seemingly harmless cause such damage? Below is a list of reasons why continuing to use social media throughout your divorce is a bad idea:
- Pictures can hurt your case: Many of us share pictures on social media, but pictures can easily be taken out of context. If you share pictures online of a night out with friends, drinking and partying, this could be misinterpreted and your spouse’s attorney might try to argue that you party too excessively and are irresponsible. If you are fighting for child custody, this could severely handicap your case and cost you the rights you are seeking. Err on the side of caution and simply stop posting photos to social media.
- Talking about your spending habits can hurt you: While no one is out there posting about their annual income on Facebook, a lot can still be gleaned about how much you make from the way you live your life and the purchases you make. If you recently went on a lavish vacation or just got yourself the latest and greatest television, but claim you cannot make spousal support payments, you are going to look dishonest in court.
- Your posts are never really private: You probably unadded or blocked your spouse and made your posts private, but this does not mean he or she will never be able to see your posts. Consider the fact that the two of you probably share many mutual friends and that it can be rather difficult to determine who will remain loyal to whom. Instead of taking a gamble on a mutual friend spilling the beans, you will be much better off if you do not post anything at all. If this is impossible for you to do, ask yourself if you would mind a judge seeing your post. If you are not sure about the answer, simply do not post it.
- Tags, mentions, and check-ins: Even if you do everything right, your friends and family might inadvertently harm your case with their own social media posts. Ask them to respect your privacy and to not post about your divorce or tag you in any posts, check-ins, or pictures.
Additionally, if you cannot stay off social media, other mistakes you might want to avoid include posting images of a new partner or bashing your soon-to-be former spouse. If you really need to vent to someone about your spouse, speak with a therapist or a close friend or family member in person. Whatever you do, never post it online.
Family Law Attorney in Knoxville
If you and your spouse are getting a divorce, now is the time to obtain knowledgeable legal representation to help you navigate this process while protecting your interests. At Menefee & Brown, P.C., our team of Knoxville family law attorneys is backed by over 40 years of combined legal experience and a proven track record of success that you can count on. Work with a team you can trust instead of leaving your future up to chance.
Get started on your divorce case today and contact our legal team at (865) 351-2029 to request a free initial case evaluation with one of our knowledgeable attorneys.