If you are considering filing for divorce or are currently going through the divorce process, you might have been advised to stay off social media while the divorce is pending. Do not ignore this advice. Unlike information shared through face-to-face conversations, content shared on social media is public. Even with strict privacy settings on your accounts, there is no way to be completely sure of who sees your activity and how they save, share, or otherwise use it.
Removing yourself entirely from social media is a big choice, and it might not be practical for you to do so. It also might not even be necessary – if you have the self- control to avoid engaging in conflicts and posting content that can reflect poorly on your case, you can continue to use social media without worry during the divorce process. Use the following guidelines to use social media responsibly while your divorce is pending.
Update Your Privacy Settings
On your social media accounts, change your settings so your content can only be viewed by your friends and followers. But do not let this lull you into complacency – even with strict privacy settings, your private posts can be saved and shared beyond your network.
Do Not Mention Your Spouse or Children on Social Media
Any discussion of your divorce should be kept off social media. This includes comments about your lawyer, your spouse’s lawyer, and the court. But do not stop there. Avoid posting about your spouse and your children because those posts can be taken out of context and used to make you look like an unfit parent, an abusive partner, or like you are co-habitating with a new partner, which can impact your eligibility for spousal maintenance.
If somebody targets one of your posts or makes a comment about you on social media, do not engage. Save screenshots of the offending material and resist the urge to engage in petty back-and-forth banter.
Keep it Rated G
Photos of you drinking, smoking, and engaging in any other “questionable” activities should not be on social media. Avoid using aggressive or profane language in your social media interactions or writing anything negative about your former partner.
Change Your Passwords
If you shared social media passwords with your spouse, now is the time to change your passwords and if you do not have separate social media accounts, to open your own. Use strong passwords to ensure that your accounts are not at risk of being compromised.
Work with an Experienced La Crosse Divorce Lawyer
Social media is everywhere today. Although you might feel like you cannot escape it, remember that you have complete control over what you say and do on social media and in most cases, it is best to remove yourself from social media while your divorce is pending. Take this time to focus on the divorce and your life going forward, not the drama between relatives and friends on the internet. For more guidance about managing your life outside your divorce while your divorce is pending, schedule a consultation with a member of our team of divorce lawyers at Moen Sheehan Meyer, Ltd.