Social media is not going away. For most people in New York and elsewhere, using social media sites is a part of every day life. Unfortunately, there are times when using or posting certain things on such sites can be damaging. When getting a divorce, for example, it is best to steer clear of social media altogether or be particularly careful about what one is willing to share.
What is posted online becomes a permanent log of one’s day-to-day activities. Believe it or not, what an individual chooses to share can be used against him or her in court. For example, posting pictures of taking what look to be expensive vacations, making massive purchases or partying with friends can affect support payments and child custody.
Anything posted on social media accounts can be taken out of context or interpreted in ways that benefit the other party. It also invites the world into a very private and emotional time in one’s life. While staying away from social media may not be possible, it is possible to control what one is willing to put out there.
The divorce process is difficult enough. No one — whether in New York or elsewhere — needs the added stress of social media postings being used against him or her in a negative way. During a divorce, it is okay to stay connected with friends and family in this way, but it is wise to be cautious. If social media content is used by one’s soon-to-be ex-spouse, one’s legal counsel will have to work hard to minimize any damage and still strive to seek the best settlement terms possible.
Source: The Huffington Post, “Social Media + Divorce = Danger Ahead!”, Deanna Conklin-Danao, April 19, 2016