If your divorce is going to be unfriendly, you may suspect a contested custody case on the horizon. Because content from your social media accounts are admissible as evidence in court, it is important that you are careful about what you share on the web.
Here are three ways your social media accounts could be used against you in court.
Disparaging messages
Sending threatening or bitter messages, posts or comments about your ex-spouse on social media may lead a court to believe that you will exemplify mean-spirited behavior to your child. Avoid insinuating ill-wishes toward your ex-spouse or anyone else online. Instead, maintain a positive or tolerant demeanor when you post.
Incriminating photos
Social media posts can easily be taken out of context in court. A photo of one celebratory drink could be used to illustrate excessive alcoholism or neglect if the court does not know the context of the occasion.
Even photos you may not think could be incriminating may be used as against you. For example, a man in Westchester, NY demonstrated that his wife was not the primary caregiver of their son by using Facebook photos as evidence of her frequent out-of-state business travels.
Political posts
If political issues easily aggravate you, try to avoid them on social media. Exhibiting signs of intense emotion over controversial issues can show poor anger management skills. As a general rule of thumb, try to avoid content concerning political or religious issues on social media.
If uncontested divorce, no-fault divorce or mediation sessions are not an option for you, it is a good idea to contact an experienced family law attorney for help with your custody case. A strong case strategy can help prepare you to face any ill-willed accusations that may come of your social media accounts.