Things to Know About Social Media When Going Through Divorce
When most people prepare for divorce, their first thoughts often revolve around property division, alimony, and other terms that will greatly impact what their future will look like after the marriage is officially over. Few people think about Instagram and their other social media profiles. This is a mistake.
A casual comment, a photo posted last month, and even checking into a restaurant can all end up in court filings and hurt your case. Below, one of our Tampa contested divorce attorneys explains what you need to know about social media can impact proceedings.
Social Media Profiles are Evidence
Digital content, such as posts made to social media, is discoverable in Florida divorce proceedings. This can include photos, public posts, location tags, and sometimes even private messages or deleted content. If a post refers to parenting, finances, conduct, or credibility, the other side can request it through discovery or a subpoena.
Many people do not view social media posts the same way they might consider bank statements when going through a divorce. In regards to evidence, though, the two are very similar and can be used in the same way.
How Social Media Can Impact Equitable Distribution
The courts in Florida divide marital assets fairly, but not necessarily equally. If you plan to argue that you have a lower income or are experiencing financial hardship, your social media content should not contradict these statements. Photos of a new car, a recent vacation, or a fancy dinner will get noticed. Even checking into an upscale venue can raise questions about how you can afford it.
The courts heavily weigh lifestyle when making decisions about child support and alimony. Anything you post can serve as evidence about income you did not report.
How Social Media Can Impact Child-Related Issues
If you and your spouse have children together, the courts will make any decisions regarding them based on the child’s best interests. Social media content can reflect on your parental judgment.
Posts involving reckless behavior, substance abuse, and comments about the other parent will draw significant scrutiny from the court. Family law judges want to see that you are willing and able to care for your child and put them first. This includes supporting the child’s relationship with the other parent. Hostile posts about your spouse will show that you are not willing to co-parent, which could drastically hurt your case.
Our Contested Divorce Attorneys in Tampa Can Advise On Your Case
When going through a divorce, there are many things to think about. These include not only your budget during and after the process, and the goals you want to accomplish throughout the process, but also your social media profiles. At All Family Law Group, P.A., our Tampa contested divorce attorneys can advise on all aspects of your case to ensure that no mistakes are made that could hurt you in the future. Call us today at 813-672-1900 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation and to learn more about how we can help. Se Habla Espanol.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/0061.html
