Social media has become an integral part of our everyday lives.

So much so that not only has social media usage led to an increase in the rate of divorces, but it’s also increasingly used as evidence in divorce proceedings.

Let’s explore the role social media plays in divorce proceedings and how to avoid activity that can be used against you in the court of law.

Social Media as Evidence

According to National Law Review:

  • 81% of divorce attorneys have presented social media as evidence in court and
  • Facebook has been presented as primary evidence for 66% of divorce cases.

It clearly shows the impact social media has in divorce proceedings and the attention to detail that is required for social media users.

Social Media Don’ts

 

To help you navigate the troubling and complex ways of divorce proceedings, here’s a list of social media don’ts to avoid:

·      Defamation

You should not defame your partner on social media. Not only can it lead to an unhappy marriage, but you could find yourself fighting for more than just a divorce case in court.

·      Cyber-Bullying & Stalking

You must refrain from stalking your spouse or from accessing their social media without their consent. This could lead to a long charge sheet that includes stalking and online harassment and can break the case for you.

·      Vacation Pictures

Everyone loves posting pictures from their shopping sprees and vacations. However, the picturesque vacation photos on social media can be used as evidence that you are financially better off than you have revealed during court proceedings.

·      Alcohol & Narcotics

Whenever you find yourself in a divorce case fighting for custody, you must present yourself as a fit parent.

Taking and uploading pictures with alcohol and narcotics on social media could be leveraged against you.

Social Media Do’s

 

Ultimately, your social media presence dictates a large part of how you are perceived by the judge.

Let us briefly understand what you can do on social media

  • Use social media cautiously and limit the time you spend there.
  • Keep your comments, posts, and chats appropriate.
  • Set privacy on your social media and limit the number of people with access to your social media accounts.
  • Contact a divorce lawyer and seek professional advice on how to use social media as your case could be uniquely different.

Conclusion

 

Legal commitments and vigilance over social media use increase the complexity. Hence, you need attorneys by your side to help you navigate the challenges life throws at you.

From aggressive advocacy to restrained, yet effective representation, Lamb, Carroll, Papp & Cunabaugh, Attorneys at Law (LCP&C) stands with its clients on their most difficult phase.

Isn’t that precisely what you want?

Contact today to get the representation you need!