Why Social Media And Family Court Cases Do Not Mix Well
Over recent years and certainly, the last two years, as the world has dealt with coronavirus, social media has been playing an ever-increasing role in our lives. From simply chatting to friends, through to an advertising channel that has made millions for some businesses, social media shows no sign of going away. Whilst it has many positive attributes, social media does not always lead to good outcomes in some circumstances, and within that category, we include its misuse by someone going through a case related to family law. Whether that be divorce, a separation, or an issue relating to their children, the use of social media treads a fine line between positive and being detrimental to one’s case.
By its very nature, social media sets several traps for users, and given the high emotions that often occur during family law cases, social media can seem like a welcome outlet to vent one’s frustrations and even anger. However, whilst it might seem therapeutic to call your ex-partner out for what you perceive to be their failings and how unfairly they treated you during your marriage, the family court will almost certainly not see it that way. The risk goes further than posting unacceptable statements about your ex-partner yourself, as it also extends to what your friends and family do on social media too. It might not be you, but by liking or sharing such posts you are guilty by default as in effect you are republishing those insults and abuse.
Bear in mind it is not difficult for anyone to find what you have been publishing and sharing on social media. That includes your ex-partner and their legal team. In a case relating to child visitation, your family lawyers painting you as the perfect mother or father is completely undermined if minutes later the other party’s lawyer can show a litany of insults, abuse and threats made directly or liked and shared by you.