Should You Use Social Media During a Divorce?

woman on computer viewing social media

Should You Use Social Media During a Divorce?

While social media as we know it has only been around for about 15-20 years, it has had a dramatic impact on all our lives. Not only does social media keep us connected to friends and family, but it can also be a source of news and inspiration. However, did you know that your social media can be used against you during a divorce or custody battle?

To keep you protected and ensure the best chances for a successful outcome, our attorneys at the Law Firm of Johnson & Gaskill PLLC are sharing a few ways to help you navigate social media while going through a divorce.

6 Tips for Navigating Social Media Mid-Divorce

It can be easy to turn to social media for comfort and support. But, it is possible for your posts to be admissible in court—potentially being used by your ex or their attorney to impact the outcome of your divorce or custody dispute.

  1. If you can, avoid using social media: Staying off of social media altogether is the best way to ensure it cannot be used against you. However, we do not recommend deleting your profile if you are anticipating litigation, as it can be seen as an admission of guilt or spoliation of evidence.
  2. Make your account private: Updating your passwords and making all of your social media accounts private is a low-lift way to avoid unwanted eyes on your content. Do be warned that this is not a guarantee that your posts won’t be screenshot and sent to interested parties.
  3. Don’t vent about your ex or children: Bad mouthing or disparaging any ex or family member can be used to show that you are not interested in a quick and easy resolution. Even if you feel it is being said in a jocular manner, you never know how someone else will take it.
  4. Avoid pictures in compromising situations: Even if it is not on your feed, pictures of you partaking in partying, drinking alcohol, or drug use can be used against you. So, avoid these behaviors and talk to your friends and family about how you would appreciate them not tagging you in any pictures for the time being.
  5. Avoid DMs talking about your divorce and ex: While not publicly visible, direct messages (DMs) can be screenshot and shared, effectively producing the same issues as if you were to disparage your ex on your feed.
  6. If you have children, talk to them about their social media use: If you have a child or children who are old enough to be involved in social media, it is important to speak to them about what they post. If a child starts to mock or badmouth a parent online, it can indicate that a parent might be unfit or spread bad blood between you and your ex, further complicating proceedings.

Navigating a messy divorce can feel overwhelming, but our attorneys at the Law Firm of Johnson & Gaskill PLLC are here to try and help. Call us today at (832) 210-1698 for a consultation.