What to Avoid Posting Online During Your Divorce

Social Media & Divorce

Social media has become an integral part of people’s lives as they communicate, share, and document their daily activities. However, when going through a divorce, the use of social media can contribute negatively to the legal process. Posting certain things can jeopardize your case, create unnecessary stress, and damage your reputation. In this blog, we will discuss what not to post on social media during your divorce.

1. Details of Your Divorce Proceedings

Posting anything that pertains to your divorce proceedings, such as court dates, judges’ names, or any other particulars, can create complications for your legal case. Your social media activity can be used in court as evidence against you. Gossiping about your ex's earnings or spousal behaviors can also be used against you when evaluating the quality of the relationship between the two of you.

2. Negative Comments About Your Ex-Spouse or Their Family

Posting negative content about your ex-spouse can be perceived as a breach of your divorce agreement's terms. The law prohibits people from maligning their ex-partners on social media (as you could face defamation or harassment charges).

If you have children, the courts may construe such social media posts as an unwillingness to foster a relationship between the other party and your child, which can affect custody determinations. It is best to avoid saying anything negative about your ex online.

You should also avoid making statements about the other party’s friends or family on social media. Disparaging comments about your spouse's family or friends are not helpful and could create a hostile environment. Making comments about these individuals in public can also impact the relationship that your children have with their family members.

3. Any New Romantic Relationships

It is recommended that you avoid sharing any details online about your new romantic relationships until the divorce is finalized. Posting about things like trips or dinners out can affect your case.

Dating during a divorce in Texas can have serious consequences. According to Texas law, adultery is considered grounds for divorce and can be used as evidence against the offending spouse. For instance, the other party may try to argue that your marital conduct led to wasteful dissipation of assets.

Additionally, if one spouse begins dating before the divorce is finalized, it could affect the division of assets and alimony payments. Dating during a divorce can also complicate matters when it comes to child custody and visitation rights.

4. Your New Living Arrangements

You should also avoid posting details about your new living arrangements before your divorce is completed. This may cause resentment from your spouse if you are still living separately but have started living somewhere else. It is also not a good idea to publish pictures of your new house or apartment; doing so may give the other party the impression that your financial situation is better than you claim.

5. Your Frustrations

When you share your frustrations online, you may be penalized by the courts. Instead, try and find some outlets that can provide a safe and confidential space to get your feelings out. You should also be aware of whom you discuss

6. Posts that Could Lead to Questions About Your Marital Behavior or Parenting

It's advisable to avoid posting any pictures or messages that portray you in a negative light. For instance, pictures of you engaged in excessive drinking or partying can harm your credibility in court proceedings. Provocative posts or images can likewise be misconstrued as a reflection of your morality or lack thereof, making it difficult for you to win primary custody of your children.

Consult with Our Divorce Attorneys

Divorce is stressful enough without adding social media mistakes to the mix. Keep your private life away from the public eye, and don’t give your ex any ammunition that can be used against you. Instead of broadcasting your life on social media, focus on self-care and finding positive ways to share your emotions.

You should also consult with an experienced attorney. At The Clark Law Firm, our attorneys have over 35 years of collective legal experience. We can advise you concerning how your social media posts might be used as evidence and help you build a solid case with your best interest in mind.

To get started on your case, call (817) 435-4970 and schedule an initial consultation with our firm.