We have written prior blogs on how social media could affect your criminal or divorce case. However, more can be said about how an errant social media post could affect certain aspects of your divorce. You could hurt the outcome of child custody proceedings if you are not careful. Common social media mistakes that may affect child custody include:
- Making threatening posts. Threats of physical violence or harassment could cause you legal trouble and may affect the outcome of your child custody case.
- Making irresponsible or incriminating posts. If you are in the middle of a custody battle, then you should be cautious about what you post on social media. Certain types of posts, such as those that include frequent partying, could be used to argue that you are not a responsible parent. This is just one example.
- Making frequent outbursts. We understand that a heated divorce can make people feel angry and betrayed. However, frequent outbursts on social media could be used to argue that you are not fit to be granted custody.
- Checking in at the wrong places. Facebook and other social media sites allow you to check in at certain places. Frequent check ins at clubs or bars could be used to build a harmful narrative against your child custody case.
- Bashing the judge. Some couples may be unhappy with the judge presiding over their cases. However, it should go without saying that you should never under any circumstances bash the judge online.
How Should I Treat Social Media During a Divorce?
Assume that anything you say on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or any other social media sites can be seen by the opposing counsel or the judge. Even if you set your social media accounts to private, your posts may still be recoverable.
You can follow the Law Office of Daniel Jensen, LLP. on Facebook and Twitter for future updates on mistakes to avoid during a divorce. If you are looking at options for filing divorce in California, our family law attorneys are here to help. You can call us at (408)296-4100 or you can reach out to us by filling out our online case review form.
