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Can your social media activity hurt your child custody case?

On Behalf of | Oct 21, 2022 | Divorce |

Social media is a huge part of people’s lives these days. Most people turn to social media to do business, meet new people and interact with friends and family. Still, some turn to social media for venting and support when dealing with difficult situations.

However, if you are dealing with any legal matter (civil and criminal), it is important that you mind your social media activity. Understanding how your social media activity can impact the outcome of your child custody case can make life easier for you.

Here are three social media don’ts that you need to steer clear of when litigating your child custody claim.

Do not post anything illegal

This might come as a surprise, but with the advent of “Facebook Live,” it is not uncommon for some people to film and broadcast themselves while committing a crime! A great example would be going live while drunk driving. While this may seem harmless, it can actually work against your custody case. Keep in mind that your ex could be doing everything in their power to discredit your fitness for custody. And posting illegal activity can go a long way in strengthening their case.

Do not disparage your ex

Your ex might not be your favorite human being anymore. But they are still your child’s parent. Berating your ex online could be a sign that you are unlikely to be a good co-parent. It could also amount to contempt of court as well as parental alienation, and both can work against your custody case.

Do not post anything negative

You may be divorced and, thus, free to do anything you want. After all, you are no longer accountable to anyone but yourself. However, social media posts that portray you as promiscuous or posts that show you partying and drinking late in the night can paint you in a bad light. Your ex can use these to question your fitness for custody and parenting.

Child custody is a big deal during and after the divorce. Find out how you can safeguard your rights and interests while litigating a child custody claim.