Caution: Social Media and Divorce

It’s fun to add pictures and status updates to social media sites, and everyone’s doing it. From Facebook to Google+, it’s hard to find someone without a social networking account. Before you start posting about your divorce, though, think twice: social media sites can really throw a wrench into the inner workings of your case. Your divorce lawyer might recommend that you avoid posting anything at all about your divorce—and if you can’t resist, at least change your profiles’ privacy settings so most people can’t access your personal information.

Making Your Online Presence Private

It’s usually a good idea to make your social media profiles private, even if you’re not in the middle of a divorce. Anyone with an Internet connection can see public profiles, including potential employers, ex-lovers and kids.

Beware the Overshare

Many people who use social media sites during divorce do so at their own peril. Your divorce lawyer will probably advise you to censor yourself, because your ex may be able to use what you post against you later. Using social media as an outlet to slam your spouse’s character, share embarrassing stories or lay the blame for your divorce can start a firestorm that you can’t put out.

Your Kids and Social Media

Making private information available on Facebook, Google+, Twitter or any other social networking site can be risky. Your kids may have access to the things you post, which can cause confusion, hurt and resentment. Your divorce lawyer might recommend that you read through all your previous posts and delete anything that might be construed as unflattering toward your ex or that relates to your divorce.

New Romance during Divorce: A Social Media “Don’t”

While most divorce lawyers recommend that their clients wait before diving into the dating pool, some people still choose to do so. If you do choose to date before your lawyer gives you the green light, you’ll definitely need to refrain from posting the details on your social media profiles. Your ex, your ex’s family, or others might be able to get information you don’t want them to have—even if you think your profile is private. (If you are dating during divorce, make sure your divorce lawyer is aware so he or she can provide you with legal advice that pertains to your case.)

Staying under the Radar is Often Best

You don’t have to delete all your social media profiles just because you’re getting a divorce. On the contrary, it can be helpful to stay in contact with friends and family through your favourite social networking site(s). However, you should be mindful of what you say and how you say it; you never know who’s reading.