The Perils of Social Media During Divorce Proceedings
In today's digital age, social media has become a ubiquitous part of our lives. However, during divorce or other family law disputes, what you share online can have serious repercussions. As seasoned Oregon family law attorneys, we often caution clients about the potential pitfalls associated with using social media while navigating legal challenges.
A Public Forum Under Scrutiny
It is not uncommon for individuals involved in divorce or child custody matters to vent their frustrations on platforms like Facebook or Instagram. Despite privacy settings like" friends only," online content can easily reach unintended eyes—a friend-of-a-friend might capture a screenshot and share it with opposing parties. Such posts could then surface as exhibits in court proceedings or depositions.
Real-Life Examples: How Posts Can Impact Your Case
Consider a scenario where parents are embroiled in a custody dispute over their teenage son. If the Father publicly criticizes the Mother on Facebook and their son sees these comments, this could negatively affect Father's standing under ORS 107. 137 (1) (f) , which considers each parent's willingness to foster a positive relationship between the child and the other parent. Another example involves financial disclosures during divorce proceedings: if a Wife claims spousal support due to living expenses but posts about cohabiting with her new partner, this contradiction could undermine her credibility before the court.
General Advice for Handling Social Media During Divorce Cases
The sheer volume of real-world instances where social media has influenced outcomes underscores its potential dangers. It is wise to operate under the assumption that anything shared online may eventually be scrutinized by a judge.
- Avoid discussing any aspect of your case publicly.
- Refrain from posting anything that could be construed negatively—whether photos from nights out or derogatory comments about legal authorities involved in your case.
- Utilize common sense; even seemingly innocuous discussions might appear damaging when taken out of context.
- Consult with an experienced Oregon divorce lawyer if you have concerns about past posts that might arise during litigation.
By exercising caution regarding what you publish on social platforms—and promptly addressing any missteps with legal counsel—you minimize risks associated with having personal content used against you in court.
