Social media is a great way to stay connected with friends and family, but it can be a dangerous tool for those going through a divorce. Overall, 81% of American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyer (AAML) members cited an increase in the use of evidence from social networking websites during the past five years. Posts and comments that seem innocent or funny can actually be used as evidence in child custody and divorce proceedings. They can also lead to conflict between the parties involved. Our Pasadena family law team discusses why individuals pursuing divorce should be mindful of their social media activity and share tips on keeping your family law matters offline.

Your Post May Cause Conflicts

It's important to remember that social media posts can be used as evidence in divorce and child custody proceedings. Even if you delete a post, it may still be retrievable by your attorney or the court. Social media activity can reveal information about your lifestyle, income, living arrangements, etc., potentially affecting court decisions.

Additionally, posts and comments can quickly cause conflict between the parties involved in a divorce. Posts about your ex-spouse or current situation may be misconstrued or interpreted differently than intended. Social media can also be used to harass or embarrass an ex-spouse, which will only make matters worse.

Tips for Social Media During Divorce

It is essential to be mindful of your social media activity if you are going through a divorce. Here are some tips:

• Take a break from social media altogether. It may be helpful to take a few days or weeks away to clear your mind and focus on what matters most - your family law matters.

• Limit what you post or comment about. Even if your posts seem harmless, they can still be used as evidence in court or interpreted differently than intended. Aim to keep your posts positive and refrain from discussing the details of your divorce proceedings.

• Keep all family law matters offline. Social media is not the place to discuss the details of your divorce. If you need to talk with your ex-spouse or lawyer, do so in person or over the phone.

Social media can be a valuable tool, but it is vital to use it responsibly during a divorce. It is always best practice to keep family law matters offline and avoid posting anything that could be used against you in court. Following the tips outlined above, you can ensure your social media activity does not conflict with your divorce proceedings.

Your Case Is In Good Hands

Going through a divorce can be an overwhelming and emotional experience. Social media posts can only add to the stress of the situation, so it is important to use caution and practice restraint when posting or commenting online.

If you are considering filing for divorce, consult with the experienced family law attorneys at Law Offices of Christopher L. Hoglin, P.C., we can help protect your rights. With the proper legal representation and an understanding of how social media can affect your divorce proceedings, you can ensure that your case is in good hands.

We provide experienced, compassionate counsel to help you through the difficulties of divorce. Schedule a free consultation now. Call us at (626) 653-4075 to get started.