With social media at your fingertips, it’s all too easy to let yourself vent to the world while you’re going through a divorce. But, as many divorce lawyers have witnessed first-hand, many divorcing spouses have made big mistakes on their social media pages that have impacted their divorce outcome.

Whether you’re using Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, it’s important to know the best practices for being active on social media when you’re going through a divorce. Even one of the most common social media mistakes could end up negatively impacting child custody, legal fees, and alimony.

How can social media hurt my divorce case?

Social media can have a negative impact on your divorce case if you upload photos or make posts that impact the judge’s perception of you. For instance, you could be fighting for child custody, but regularly post photos online of yourself drinking alcohol or engaging in risky behavior. These photos could be used by your ex-spouse as a way to prove you’re an unfit custodial parent.

Social media can also keep your divorce from remaining uncontested. An amicable divorce is best for everyone because it reduces stress and legal fees. But a negative comment or post on social media about your spouse could quickly turn an uncontested divorce into a contested one.

How can I avoid making social media mistakes?

Fortunately, there are tips that can keep you from making a social media mistake that will come back to haunt your divorce case. Here are a few things to keep in mind when you’re on social media in the midst of a divorce:

  • Don’t post photos of yourself drinking alcohol or partying.
  • Don’t post photos of yourself spending a lot of money (such as photos of a new car, phone, shoes, or other major expense).
  • Don’t discuss your divorce on social media.
  • Don’t change your Facebook relationship status from “married” to “single” until your divorce is final.
  • Don’t make a post unless if you wouldn’t be comfortable with a judge seeing it.

Looking for an experienced divorce lawyer Houston TX residents trust?

If you’re going through a divorce, you’re not alone. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the current divorce rate in the U.S. is 3.2 per 1,000 people. That’s about 40% of all married couples.

The Houston divorce attorneys at Connolly and Shireman can help. For more information about divorce law and legal services, contact the law offices of Connolly and Shireman for a consultation today.