Social Media Accounts and Divorce
For many people social media is part of their daily life. Individuals use the platforms to communicate with co-workers, friends, and family. It is also used to follow celebrities and brands, learn about upcoming events, and check the local and global news. Because people are so used to using their social media accounts and posting information about their lives, the good and the bad, it can be difficult to remember there are times in life it can be best not to post. Going through a divorce could be one of those times.
Discuss your situation with a Bucks County family attorney, a lawyer can let you know if it is in your best interests to stay off or social media or reduce usage until a divorce is complete. There are times when it is possible to use social media accounts to gather information about an individual’s personal life. Information that could be taken out of context.
Ways Social Media Posts Can Cause Problems
Posting about your life as you navigate a divorce may seem like a normal behavior. After all, if you posted regularly before deciding to divorce, why would you stop when a divorce moves forward?
The issue is that it is possible for your spouse and their legal team to gather postings and present them as evidence. For example, if you are receiving spousal maintenance and regularly post about large purchases you are making on your own, the other party could push against the need for maintenance payments. Or, if there is a custody dispute and you post pictures in bars or at wild parties, they could be brought up as reasons your lifestyle is not appropriate for children.
Here are some things to think about regarding social media accounts and divorce.
- Resist the urge to change your relationship status to single.
- Avoid badmouthing your spouse or discussing details of the divorce.
- Posts including large purchases should be avoided.
- Partying pictures should not be posted.
- If you are not sure if something is appropriate to post, do not post it.
Assets and Unreported Income
When you go through a divorce, both you and your spouse are required to report all of your assets, including your income. If your social media posts or comments you make on other posts lead your spouse’s legal team to believe you have more assets than you disclosed, it can lead to disputes. There are many things to consider when navigating a divorce. A Bucks County family attorney can advise you on best practices.
Do you have questions about social media and divorce? The family law attorneys at Kevin L. Hand, P.C. can help. Our dedicated legal team understands the finer points of family law. There are opportunities to create the life you want. Schedule your consultation today, call 215-968-6602.