Four Tips for Staying Social Media Savvy During Divorce

We all know that social media is a big part of everyday life for people all around the world. It is now commonplace to receive daily news updates, check restaurant menus, book a flight, and connect with friends all through a variety of social media platforms.

But when it comes to divorce social media is not all roses and sunny days. In fact, as easy as it is to reach out on social media for support and track down plans of action, it is important to remain extremely careful and avoid potentially disastrous outcomes.

To stay cognizant and prepared, here is a short list of tips to help steer your social media ship on a true course:

• Keep a Low Profile
  In the midst of divorce and all of its emotional and physically demanding stressors, your best social media move is to take a break. You’re sad and angry and confused and the worst thing you can do is share those feelings with the rest of the world.

All that information is out there for the taking and a seemingly innocent comment can be used against you by your soon-to-be ex or their attorney. Best idea: Turn off all of your social media accounts until your divorce is final.

• Out with the Bad
  Stop posting how miserable you are on Facebook or what you really think about your spouse on an Instagram feed. In fact, take a close look at all posts connected to you in any way and delete all that have even a hint of negative action. The ubiquitous office party photo is a good example—it might seem innocent enough to ham it up with your friends for posterity but a shot of you doing shots won’t do your character any favors.

In fact, instances like this can have a heavy bearing on custody aspects of a case. When in doubt, remove inappropriate posts.

• Cut the Conversation
  It might seem obvious, but continuing communication between spouses is a bad idea, especially through social media. Everything you post creates a permanent record and a negative post will almost certainly resurface during divorce proceedings. Don’t let yourself be caught unaware; plan strategically and keep communication professional and whenever possible, through counsel.

Generally speaking, social media posts are admissible as evidence in court, including your posts and those that friends and followers share.

• Think About the Kids
  It’s no secret that divorce is toughest on kids and this is made tremendously more difficult in today’s social media age. Even younger children are on social media and they’re far more savvy than their parent typically realize. Kids watch and follow online conversations and will catch unsavory comments you make about your ex or the latest scoop on the new person in your life. Be considerate of your child’s feelings and know that they too are enduring a very stressful and scarring situation.

Most importantly, partner with a team that will provide the support you need. Contact the experts at The Gucciardo Law Firm today at 248-723-5190.