How can social media ruin your collaborative divorce?

You opted for a collaborative divorce. This process helps couples move forward through the process under Florida law while reducing common squabbles.

Because you are trying to stay out of divorce court, you may want to avoid social media. While this online community tool is helpful when it comes to staying in touch and relevant with friends and family, it may also cause unintended consequences during your divorce case.

A private post could spark a court battle

Once you put something out onto the internet, it tends to stay there. In the case of social media, even if you delete a post you later determine is risky, there is a good chance someone saw it. It only takes a few seconds for someone to screenshot or save a post that may make you look bad.

You may start down the path of collaborative divorce, but wind up heading to court instead if your ex sees posts that create conflict.

It may give your ex the upper hand in court

Not only might you give your spouse a reason to go to court, but your posts could also turn into evidence that hurts your case. The court can use anything you post online to decide for or against your requests during a divorce.

Florida courts, like those around the country, want to do what is best for children. Parental conflict is never in a child’s best interests, and if you badmouth your ex online, a judge may determine that you are not likely to foster a positive relationship between your children and their other parent.

You could also damage your chances if you post a picture that makes you look less than responsible, such as one where you and others are drinking while in the presence of your children. Your ex could present this as evidence and argue that you have a substance abuse problem.

The best way to avoid providing your ex with reasons to take you to court is to stay off social media entirely during your divorce.

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