Many people use social media every day. They share photos and videos, or they just post updates about their lives. They even use it as a communication tool, sometimes replacing texting.
But during a divorce, can those social media posts actually influence the outcome? In some cases, they can. Social media is a significant source of evidence, and the things that a person posts can have an impact on issues like child custody or property division.
2 potential examples
The exact way that social media will affect a case will be unique to that case and the things that a person chooses to share. But below are two examples to keep in mind.
First of all, perhaps you believe that your spouse is hiding assets or being dishonest about their financial disclosures. If they claim they do not have any money to pay child support or spousal support, for instance, but then they are making social media posts about extravagant purchases or trips that they are taking, it could help to expose this dishonesty. It shows that they have more assets than they are letting on.
In terms of child custody cases, social media can expose some of their behavior, which may influence whether or not a judge gives them sole custody. For instance, if your spouse posts about dangerous activities like drinking and driving, the court may determine that it is not actually safe for them to have primary custody of the children.
Navigating a divorce
These are just two examples to show how influential social media can be, even if the specifics of your case and your relationship are much different. As you go through the divorce, take the time to carefully look into all of your legal options. It can help to work with an experienced attorney.