If you’re active on social media, turning to friends and followers for advice may be instinctual when you’re facing a life-changing decision. And few events can impact a person’s life more profoundly than divorce.

Although social media offers a convenient way to reach out to those closest to you, some of your posts may be seen by your ex or by their attorney. Unfortunately, there are all sorts of ways that an online post can be taken out of context. Read on to learn a few reasons to stay off social media during divorce proceedings:

1. Keep the opposing party from knowing your spending habits.

While your divorce is pending, it’s a good idea to keep your spending habits private. If your situation warrants a spousal maintenance arrangement, for example, posting about major purchases or even simple outings could work against you.

If you’ll be the one making the payments, the opposing party may use such posts to justify asking for a lot more than may be reasonable given the circumstances. And if you’ll be the one receiving the payments, your ex’s legal team may use such posts to fight for reduced payments. 

2. Avoid jeopardizing a custody arrangement inadvertently.

Social media posts can have a major impact on the outcome of child custody proceedings. You could end up with an unfavorable arrangement if anything you publish online indicates one or more of the following:

• You’re often late for pickups and drop-offs.
• You’re unwilling to cooperate with your ex in general.
• You’re hostile when discussing your ex with others.
• You’re irresponsible with money.
• You cannot provide a stable living environment for the children.
• Your dating habits are exposing the children to a string of strangers or forcing them to live with someone whom they barely know.

3. Protect your mental health. 

Even if you “unfollow” or block your ex, you may still be able to see what they’re up to through your remaining mutual friends. And depending on the circumstances, what you see could be upsetting.

Staying off social media until the divorce has been finalized will prevent you from getting depressed or even angry over your ex’s latest behavior. As long as they’re off your radar, you may be less inclined to make rash decisions during the proceedings. 

Call (765) 742-9046 to discuss your case with a Lafayette divorce attorney.

If you want to file for divorce in Indiana, contact Ball Eggleston. Even if you and your spouse anticipate an amicable split, disputes can arise at any stage of the proceedings. Our attorneys can help you anticipate these disputes and aggressively protect your personal and financial interests. Call (765) 742-9046 or use our online contact form to set up a consultation with a strategic divorce lawyer in Lafayette.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.

Ball Eggleston—a Lafayette, Indiana law firm—is located at 201 Main Street, Suite 810 P.O. Box 1535 Lafayette, IN 47902. Contact Ball Eggleston by phone at (765) 742-9046, by fax at (765) 742-1966, or by email at info@ball-law.com. For additional information, find Ball Eggleston online at www.ball-law.com.

You can also find the firm on Facebook and YouTube.

Disclaimer: The content of this blog is intended to be general and informational in nature. It is advertising material and is not intended to be, nor is it, legal advice to or for any particular person, case, or circumstance. Each situation is different, and you should consult an attorney if you have any questions about your situation.