Social media is a great tool to share our life experiences while connecting to a global platform. However, behind innocent Facebook posts may be a former spouse, lurking for damaging information.
It’s a common practice for lawyers and spouses to analyze the social media presence of a former spouse. It helps create strong arguments for more substantial alimony payments, specific custody agreements and even infidelity in a relationship.
It’s more critical than ever to know what to avoid online while dealing with a divorce.
Four mistakes to avoid on Facebook
There are many ways where social media platforms could damage your reputation in court. However, the most common mistakes are:
1. Oversharing – many people use Facebook or Twitter as a platform to share and vent about their daily experiences. But oversharing details of your relationship could influence everything from your divorce to your job.
2. Spying on your former spouse – everyone is guilty of “snooping” on an ex’s Facebook page or Instagram feed. When a relationship ends, it damages your mental health to continue those “snooping” behaviors. It could also hold you back from finding the right partner.
3. Bragging – it is a grave mistake for spouses to “humble brag” about their possessions online because it makes it easier for a former spouse to argue for higher alimony or asset division in court. They can even use your posts as evidence since social media is often deemed as a public platform.
4. Criticizing your spouse – people going through rough relationships often turn to social media to find solace or support. However, airing out your grievances online will only create more tension in your relationship and possibly your family if you have children.
Luckily, all these mistakes are easily avoidable by keeping personal details offline and keeping your divorce proceeding in the courtroom. It may be difficult at first, especially if you are dealing with a difficult partner, but it will only help you ease the transition into post-marriage life.
