When you’re going through a divorce, it can feel like your entire life is under a microscope. I’ve seen firsthand how even small actions can impact a family law case. One area that often causes unexpected problems is social media. What you post online can have real-world consequences in the courtroom, especially in Texas divorce and child custody matters.
Navigating this digital landscape carefully is crucial. To help you protect yourself and your case, I’ve put together some essential dos and don’ts for using social media during a divorce.
The Dos: What You Should Do
- Do update your privacy settings. The first thing you should do is make all of your social media profiles private. Limit who can see your posts to only trusted friends and family. This simple step can prevent opposing counsel from easily accessing your information.
- Do be mindful of what you “like” and share. Your online activity goes beyond your own posts. Liking or sharing content that seems aggressive, irresponsible, or critical of your ex-spouse can be used against you in your divorce proceedings or even during a child custody dispute.
- Do assume everything is public. Even with the tightest privacy settings, screenshots can be taken. Before you post anything, ask yourself if you would be comfortable with a judge reading it. If the answer is no, don’t post it.
The Don’ts: What to Avoid
- Don’t post about your social life. Photos of vacations, parties, or expensive purchases can create a misleading picture of your financial situation or lifestyle. This could affect decisions on spousal support or asset division.
- Don’t vent about your ex or the case. It’s natural to feel frustrated, but social media is not the place to air your grievances. Negative comments about your spouse can be interpreted as a sign of conflict, which can complicate custody matters.
- Don’t let friends post or tag you. Politely ask your friends and family to refrain from posting photos of you or mentioning your divorce online. Even a well-intentioned post from a friend can inadvertently cause issues.
Your online conduct is a reflection of your judgment. By being cautious and deliberate with what you share, you can avoid giving the other side ammunition to use against you.
If you are navigating a divorce in Texas and need guidance, I am here to help. I offer a personalized, compassionate approach to help you through this difficult time. Contact my office today to discuss your situation. You can reach me at or by filling out our online contact form.