Can social media hurt your divorce?

Many couples live their lives online. From social networking sites and blogs to professional networks and digital storefronts, in recent years people have become accustomed to spending a significant amount of time perusing the online world. When divorce becomes a reality, though, individuals often find themselves attempting to continue the same level of online engagement which only serves to hurt the process.

Here are three tips that parties can follow to ensure the divorce process runs smoothly and unnecessary complications are avoided:

• Avoid arguing online: Even if your former spouse posts something you disagree with, you must recognize and avoid the temptation to respond in kind. Nothing good can come of having a public argument or trading barbs back and forth across social media platforms. If you must reply, send an email privately. Although, it is wise to keep in mind that these emails can be printed or captured as a digital image. It is important to stay professional and neutral in every encounter.
• Avoid airing dirty laundry online: No matter the factors of your marriage – or its end – you should not comment on them online. Even if your spouse’s infidelity, drug use or financial deceit has led to the divorce, fight the urge to comment on this in a public, social networking environment.
• Advise your friends to follow your lead: You should take the time to discuss these matters with friends and family so everyone is on the same page. If you make the effort to protect dirty laundry, those close to you need to do the same. Their emotional support is crucial through this process, but online vitriol does not help the situation or the divorce process itself.

Keeping these tips in mind, a divorcing individual can often avoid heated arguments and emotional disputes through the divorce process.

The divorce process typically contains numerous disagreements built into the challenges of dividing property, dividing debt and reaching a compromise regarding custody and support. The more you can do to lessen ancillary disagreements the better. It is wise to follow the guidance of your attorney on these matters.