Be Wary of Social Media Posts When Pursuing a PA Divorce
Of the ways to communicate with friends, coworkers, and family members, many turn to social media platforms to share life updates and ask questions. While posting thoughts, experiences, and even personal struggles can be satisfying for people, it must be understood that there are times of life when privacy supports your long-term objectives.
For example, when you are navigating the complexities of a divorce in Pennsylvania’s Bucks County, it is possible for your social media posts and comments to significantly impact the outcome of your case, sometimes in ways you would not be happy with. Exercising caution in communication, such as reducing or refraining from social media activity, could be in your best interests. Talk to a Bucks County family attorney about your situation so they can guide you through the divorce process.
Misinterpreted Information and Misconstruing Content
Because social media communications are part of daily life, it is easy to overlook the potential consequences of an online presence when going through a legal process. But you need to keep in mind that during a divorce every post, photo, or comment could resurface and be scrutinized by a legal team.
Reasons why you should be careful communicating on social media during a divorce include the following.
- Information can be misinterpreted. Even posts and comments that you believe are innocent could be misinterpreted by your spouse’s legal team, leading to you being portrayed in a negative light. For instance, a photo of you out celebrating late with friends could be misconstrued as proof of irresponsible behavior.
- Asset division. If you are asserting that you need financial support from your ex-partner but your social media posts showcase an extravagant lifestyle, this information could be used against you.
- Child custody concerns. Custody disputes can be particularly messy, and social media activity could be used to impact how a court sees your ability to effectively parent, particularly if there are posts that lead to legal professionals questioning your ability to maintain an environment that is stable for minors.
Don’t assume your accounts are private, even when privacy controls are activated there is no guarantee that your posts are safe from individuals or groups who are hoping to use social media information against you. Plus, there is the possibility of mutual connections or friends sharing your social media content without your knowledge.
Consult with a Bucks County Attorney to Explore Next Steps
A skilled attorney understands the intricacies of divorce cases and can provide valuable guidance on managing your social media activity. Once you share your story, your lawyer may advise you to review and delete any content that could potentially harm your case. Before making final major decisions about how to communicate during a divorce, consult with a Bucks County family attorney to access personalized advice based on the specifics of your case.
Was a social media post you wanted to keep private during your divorce process shared by another individual? Connect with the legal team at Kevin L. Hand, P.C. Call 215-968-6602 to schedule your consultation today.
