During times of transition, many people reach out to family, friends, and loved ones for support. In the modern age, this support may come from social media outlets and apps. Although these platforms are generally beneficial, they can be a severe detriment to your divorce case.
Because your entire future depends on your divorce case, it is important to follow strict guidelines on social media while going through the divorce process. Our attorneys are passionate about providing reliable information and resources to those navigating family law issues.
Deactivation
Your spouse’s attorney can use a significant amount of information from your social media accounts against you in court. Because of this, your safest option is to deactivate your social media. This keeps an incredible amount of information offline. It also keeps you from doing or saying anything that you may regret.
Deactivation is not a possibility for some people. Many people use these platforms as their sole method of communication. Some need them for work or school. There are other ways to navigate social media if you are unable to deactivate your accounts completely.
Bad Behavior
Your spouse’s attorney will make any activities depicted in your posts look like bad behavior. For example, if you are out to dinner with friends and post a picture, your spouse’s attorney may imply that your harmless glass of wine suggests that you are partying and drinking too much to be a fit parent to your children. If the restaurant is somewhat expensive, they may imply that you are hiding assets, allowing you to afford such luxuries.
The court may believe these claims, even if they are completely untrue. It is your spouse’s attorney’s job to make you look as bad as possible. Anything that could possibly imply bad behavior will be used against you.
To combat this, scrutinize every photo that you post. Only share safe activities, such as time with your children or basic daily activities. Ask your friends to refrain from posting pictures of you or tagging you in them.
Dating
Some people process a divorce far before it is complete. This can lead to dating or getting into a new relationship while the divorce process is still ongoing. This can be dangerous territory for social media. Anyone who is in your life on a regular basis, especially in an intimate relationship, can be discussed in court. Your spouse’s attorney may question your ability to safely parent your children based on who you are spending your time with.
Most significantly, dating and new relationships can make you ineligible for spousal support or alimony. If your spouse makes a higher income than you do, or if you delayed your career to raise children or tend to the home, you may be eligible for alimony payments. However, entering a new relationship, especially a serious one, often makes you ineligible for or ends your spousal support payments. If you suggest that you are dating someone online, you may lose thousands of dollars in support.
Refrain from posting any new partners on your social media platforms during a divorce. Although this may be irritating, it can save you a significant amount of money and headaches.
FAQs
Q: Can I Use Social Media During a Divorce?
A: Yes, you can certainly use your social media during a divorce if you choose to do so. However, it is important to be careful about what you post and when. Posts that suggest hidden wealth or money, include drugs or alcohol, or depict you and your friends engaging in risky behaviors can all jeopardize parts of your divorce process. Although it is safest to deactivate your social media accounts during your divorce, you are permitted to keep your accounts if you must.
Q: How Does Social Media Affect Child Custody?
A: The state’s top priority when deciding child custody is the children’s happiness and safety. Any picture or post that implies that you are an unfit parent can be used against you. In many cases, your spouse’s attorney will try to make you look like an unfit parent to gain more custody and potential child support for their client. They will speculate wildly about your social media. They will then use it to suggest that you are not a safe guardian for your children.
Q: How Much Does a Divorce Attorney Cost?
A: Divorce attorney fees range widely depending on the attorney’s experience, the details of your case, and how long your claim takes to resolve. Some divorces are simple and do not require very much negotiation. Others require extensive attorney involvement. In all situations, speak with potential attorneys about their fees and expenses before you officially hire them. This will help you anticipate the cost of your divorce. Some attorney fees may be covered by your spouse or shared finances.
Q: Do I Need an Attorney for a Divorce in Kansas City, MO?
A: Although an attorney is not legally required, it is important to hire one. Without attorney representation, you may receive, among other negative outcomes:
- A smaller settlement
- A poor child custody schedule
- An unfavorable child support agreement
- Insufficient spousal support
It is important to have someone advocate for you during the divorce process. An attorney is well-equipped to do this for you. We can also answer any questions and guide you on lifestyle and social media choices during your divorce.
Q: What If My Spouse Posts on Social Media During Our Divorce?
A: Although it may be painful, there is nothing inherently illegal about posting on social media while you are getting divorced. However, if your spouse posts something illegal, or that implies illegal or dangerous behavior, you may be able to use this to your advantage during the divorce process. Show any of these posts to your attorney. We can help you determine whether they can be used to your advantage in court.
Contact Stange Law Firm in Kansas City, MO
Our team at Stange Law Firm is here to help you navigate the legal side of your divorce. Whether you are splitting amicably or are facing a contentious separation process, we offer resources that can help you achieve your goals and prepare for your new life.
For more, contact Stange Law Firm.
