It's easy to see why social media can feel like a warm, fuzzy respite from the pain of a divorce. It is a place where you can reach supportive people in your life with one click. How else could you get sympathy from your childhood best friend, a Facebook friend you added while playing a game, and a co-worker all at the same time?
Despite how tempting it may be to share your sorrows on Facebook, you need to tread carefully when posting to the social media network before, during, and after a divorce. What you post can be used against you. Before you post on Facebook or any other social media apps during your divorce, ask yourself the following questions.
Consider This: Have You Discussed Social Media with Your Ex?
No matter how frustrated you are with your ex, maintain communication throughout the divorce whenever possible. If you have children, that's essential. One of the topics that you should discuss is how you both want to handle social media. You may choose to stay friends on social media or go your separate ways in the digital world.
If you share children, discuss how much you think should be shared about the goings-on of the kids. Some parents want a total ban on sharing photos on social media, while others enjoy posting them daily. You and your ex need to try to see eye-to-eye on how and when the children should be mentioned or depicted in Facebook posts.
Also, discuss how you want to handle the divorce on social media. You and your ex may decide to avoid the topic altogether on Facebook. Privately telling your friends is perfectly acceptable. On the other hand, you and your ex may share the divorce news in a post. Do what feels right to you. Try to come to an agreement with your ex. Once you do, stick with the agreement.
Consider This: Can What You're Posting Be Used Against You?
Well-documented divorce cases reveal that some lawyers peruse social media accounts to gather evidence and information that they use against the other party. Additionally, overly-negative social media posts could reflect badly on your character for potential employees or clients. Always consider how someone can use a Facebook against you.
Many parents long to vent on social media when parenthood gets difficult, but someone can easily misunderstand an innocent post where you complain about your parental responsibilities. It could come back to haunt you in a custody case. Also, consider whether a post could potentially hurt your kids if it is saved or exploited by your ex.
Consider This: Do You Want the Information to Be Public?
When you're composing a Facebook post, think about whether you're sharing information you'd like to be public knowledge. If it's not, don't post it. Changing the setting of your posts doesn't mean that much. People can screenshot any of your social media posts, and they may upload it the internet where it will never fully go away. Don't risk it.
This doesn't just pertain to big news. It may be something as simple as your child losing a first tooth. If you post it on social media, someone could innocently mention it to your ex. That could cause strife if you weren't the one to share this simple bit of news. Always consider whether you want any post to be public before publishing it.
Finally, never post to Facebook or any other social media site without carefully considering the potential consequences of a post. Your divorce lawyer can help with any concerns you have regarding divorce law and social media. Contact Krisor & Associates with any questions and concerns. We'll help you safeguard your best interests during your divorce.
