In the not-so-distant past, broadcasting your relationship status on Facebook was something every couple did. Making things “Facebook official” was a big deal, and switching your status to “It’s complicated” or “single” got the rumor mill running like nothing else.
While Facebook’s relationship status still exists as a feature on the site, its importance has faded. However, the role social media plays in relationships is more pronounced than ever. Attorney Gary R. Swavely, Jr. has experience working with many clients in the Reading area whose social media activity impacted their divorce.
Secure Your Accounts
If you and your partner are splitting up, securing your digital assets should be on your to-do list.
Begin by signing out of your accounts on shared devices. This can typically be done in the settings or profile menu of one device so you don’t have to worry about tracking down every device you have ever used to sign on to all of your various accounts.
Consider changing all of your passwords if you suspect your ex knows your passwords, or you can’t figure out how to remotely sign out of various devices.
Many couples share certain accounts, like Netflix or Amazon. This will obviously not work well going forward. One or both of you may need to set up new, separate accounts. If this is not something you can work out amicably, it is an issue that can be negotiated.
Limit Social Media Posting
Social media is the main way many of us keep up with our friends and family, so limiting your social media usage while your divorce is pending can be difficult, but it is a good idea.
Posts that celebrate your split, hate on your ex or flaunt a new relationship can cause unnecessary friction. Posts that show you spending a lot of money could be used as evidence of your ability to make spousal or child support payments. Posts that show you engaging in risky behavior may impact your child custody agreement.
Being careful about what you post is important even if you unfollow and block your ex, and have the highest security settings possible on your account. You never know which one of your connections is going to take it upon themselves to screenshot your posts and send them to your ex.
Don’t Access Your Ex’s Accounts
Just because your ex didn’t get the memo about the importance of securing their accounts doesn’t mean you should log into their accounts to see what they are up to. It can be incredibly tempting to take a quick peek at your ex’s inbox or check to see who they have been DMing, but doing so can get you in a lot of trouble.
Remove this temptation by signing your ex out of any accounts he or she has accessed on your devices. You may also consider having your attorney suggest their attorney remind them of the importance of changing their online passwords.
Don’t Make It Harder To Get The Results You Need
Social media is a great tool for staying connected to your loved ones, but if not used wisely it can also be a powerful weapon. Attorney Gary R. Swavely, Jr. has experience handling divorces where social media posts have become major issues. He is ready to advise you about this topic if you are worried your social media usage will impact your divorce. Please contact him today to schedule a free consultation.