Many different factors can lead to a divorce, and spouses who decide to separate are not always amicable with one another. Sometimes, a relationship deteriorates to the point of hostility, making the divorce process quite the battlefield.
When this happens, it’s particularly important to be cautious about how and what you communicate during this time. While frequent use of social media, texting, and other online communications is common in this day and age, it’s helpful to remember that these communications can potentially harm you in a divorce case. It might be tempting to email or text your partner when you are upset, but consider thinking twice before you do so.
Everything from private messages, posts, comments, and even photos can be analyzed and scrutinized by opposing parties to build a case against you. Hurtful or incriminating statements made in the heat of the moment can come back to haunt you and can impact the outcome of your divorce. On the other hand, your divorce attorney might use online communications from your spouse as part of your case.
Always discuss the subject of online communications with your divorce attorney.
BTL Family Law is
Here to Help
Be Careful with Online Communications
In today’s digital age, we are more interconnected than ever before. Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat have become an integral part of our lives, allowing us to stay connected with family, friends, and colleagues. While these platforms offer numerous benefits, they also pose a significant risk during divorce proceedings.
While you’re going through a divorce, remember that anything you post online can be used as evidence. Even if your profiles are set to private, there are ways for opposing parties to gain access to your posts and messages. It’s not uncommon for divorce attorneys to scour social media platforms to find evidence that can be used in their clients’ cases. This can include photos of you engaging in risky behavior, posts about new relationships or financial spending, or even public arguments with your ex-spouse.
The Dangers of Private Messages
While many people may feel that private messages are just that – private – they can still be obtained during divorce proceedings. In some cases, courts have allowed access to private messages exchanged on platforms such as Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp. This means that even if you think you are having a confidential conversation with a close friend or family member, it might be used against you.
Online communications can also be misinterpreted or taken out of context. What may have been a harmless joke or venting session with a trusted friend can be twisted to make you appear in a negative light. This is why it is important to be mindful of what you say, even in private messages.
The Impact of Social Media Posts
Social media posts are another aspect of online communications that can have a significant impact on divorce proceedings. Even if you are careful about what you say in private messages, your public posts can still be scrutinized. It’s not uncommon for divorce attorneys to use posts to challenge your credibility or fitness as a parent in a child custody battle.
Consider the content before you post online. For example, if you claim to be struggling financially in court but then post pictures of lavish vacations or expensive purchases on social media, it can undermine your case. Even if these were gifts or have a reasonable explanation, public posts can be harmful to your case.
Likewise, if you are seeking custody of your children, but your social media posts depict actions that may be seen as questionable by the courts, this can work against you. Even a seemingly benign post on social media can have damaging consequences. Avoid posting or publicly discussing your divorce to protect your best interests.
Learn How to Protect Yourself Online
An experienced divorce lawyer can advise you on the best ways to protect yourself online during your divorce process. Previously, you might have shared confidential login details on many of your accounts with your ex. Preventing your ex-spouse from accessing your accounts is one of the most important first steps to take. This may include changing all of the passwords on your phone, email, and social media accounts.
Additionally, save any emails, texts, and other forms of communication that you receive from your ex-spouse that can be evidence to support your case. If they sent you threatening or incriminating online communication or slandered your name publicly, it is important for the courts to have this information when they make relevant decisions.
The Benefits of Working with an Attorney
Given the potential consequences of online communications in your divorce, you must listen to an experienced divorce attorney from the start of the process. A knowledgeable attorney can advise you on what to say and what not to say online and explain the potential repercussions of online actions. They can advise you on how to protect yourself online and work through the legal issues of your case.
Remember, one slip-up online can have lasting consequences, so it is important to learn how best to protect yourself during your divorce process. Contact a divorce lawyer near you for personalized advice on how to protect your interests and preserve key evidence for your case, including any communications from your spouse.
Talk to a Skilled Divorce Lawyer Today
In the digital age, we need to be mindful of how our online communications can impact us, especially during a divorce. Private messages, public posts, and even photos can be used as evidence against you, especially if your divorce is contentious. To avoid potential issues and setbacks, it is advisable to seek professional guidance from an experienced divorce attorney. They can handle the challenges of the divorce proceedings and provide valuable advice on how to protect yourself.
Remember, online communications can hurt you or work in your favor, so it’s better to be proactive and cautious. Don’t let your personal, online communications be used against you in your divorce case. Contact a family law firm in Scottsdale for personalized guidance and support during this challenging time.
BTL Family Law is
Here to Help