Divorce and Social Media: Navigating the Digital World During a Split

Holding a cell phone with icons floating in the background

We recently worked with a couple where the wife posted vacation photos with friends during the divorce process. Her husband’s attorney used those images to argue she was hiding money. What seemed like innocent fun cost her thousands in legal fees to prove otherwise.

Sound familiar? You’re not alone.

Unlike court-litigated divorce, collaborative divorce focuses on cooperation. You’re working together, not against each other. This means less temptation to weaponize social media and more focus on moving forward.

When you’re hurting, venting online feels natural. But divorce changes the game completely.

Here’s the truth about social media during divorce – everything you post can be used against you. That angry tweet? Screenshot. Your new relationship status? Evidence. Even your likes and comments can create problems you never saw coming.

Here are some things we often see on social media that can go wrong:

  • Posts about purchases may affect asset division
  • Photos at bars or parties can impact custody decisions
  • Complaints about your ex can be seen as parental alienation
  • New relationships posted too soon complicate negotiations
  • Location check-ins reveal information you’d rather keep private

Here is what we share with our clients about how to handle their social media during their divorce, until their divorce is finalized:

  • Don’t change your relationship status without discussing it first
  • Avoid posting anything about the divorce, your ex, or the process, even to friends.
  • Skip the venting even in private groups or chats (screenshots happen)
  • Wait before dating publicly, even if you’re legally separated
  • Update privacy settings to maximum security
  • Take a complete break. Deactivate temporarily if possible.

Kids often get caught in the middle during a divorce, and they’ll watch how you handle it.  Monitor their accounts and ask family members not to post about your situation.

The divorce will end. Those posts? They’re forever, even if deleted. Choose wisely.

Family Divorce Solutions comprises well-respected, experienced and trained attorneys, mental health professionals, financial professionals, and child specialists who work as a team to reach a complete and satisfactory resolution for everyone involved. Contact us today!

Note: This information is general in nature and should not be construed as legal/financial/tax/or mental health advice. You should work with your attorney, financial, mental health or tax professional to determine what will work best for your situation.

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