Social media is a part of our daily lives, but when you’re going through a divorce, it’s a landscape you should tread carefully. Here are seven tips to help you manage your social media presence during a sensitive time.
Think before you post
It’s easy to share every thought and emotion on Instagram, X, TikTok and other social media, but during a divorce, you might want to think twice before you click. Here are seven general tips for social media usage
- Go dark: Consider taking a break from all platforms until your divorce is finalized. This is the safest way of handling it.
- Avoid negative posts: If you cannot stay off social media, don’t use it to vent about your spouse or family. Remember, your children could see these posts. And your ex and their divorce lawyer are likely monitoring your accounts for evidence to use against you.
- Share positivity: Therefore, try to keep your posts and comments positive. Share moments that make you smile and any details that could upset your ex or children.
- Lockdown privacy settings: Maximize your privacy and ask friends to respect your choice not to be tagged. Even so, act with the assumption that your ex will see what you post.
- Keep your case off the internet: Don’t make your divorce proceedings any more public than they have to be. Keep information about negotiations and other legal matters offline.
- No “revenge porn”: Posting intimate photos or videos of your ex is not just disrespectful; it can also be illegal.
Reckless social media activity can come back to haunt you. For instance, posting vacation photos while claiming financial hardship in alimony discussions could weaken your position. Every image and word can be scrutinized and potentially used against you in legal proceedings.
Consult an attorney for the right social media approach
Your divorce attorney is not just your legal advisor but also a strategist for handling the public aspects of your divorce. Reach out to them for advice tailored to your unique situation, ensuring you maintain dignity and respect for all involved throughout the process.
