Knowledgeable Divorce Attorneys Addressing Social Media Issues in Wheaton, IL
Social networking sites, such as Facebook and Twitter, have become immensely popular among people of all ages. While these sites are terrific for keeping up with friends and family members, they can also be dangerous for spouses who are involved in a divorce. It is important to think twice before posting a message or a photo on the web that may later come back to haunt you.
At Musielak & Rosinski LLC, we have seen the negative impact that social media posts can have on divorce, including the negative effects on credibility and the potential settlement of the case. These posts may include tagged photographs of friends; comments about lawyers, judges, or spouses; and even the friending or unfriending of certain individuals.
Experienced Illinois Family Law Attorneys Providing Sound Advice for a Digital Age
It is a wise rule of thumb not to post anything online that you would not be comfortable having your estranged spouse, his or her attorney, a guardian ad litem, or a family court judge see. Even if you believe that your social networking is "private," it can be fairly easy to uncover this information, since digital footprints are difficult to erase and can cause lasting damage. Search engines index comments, photos, blog posts, and other information.
If you have questions regarding social media and divorce, and other important steps you can take to protect your rights, our family law firm can provide important answers and advice. We can also guide you through the process of divorce as effectively as possible.
How Do Social Media Posts Affect Child Custody?
Social media activity can play a surprisingly large role in child custody disputes. Photos, comments, and even posts a parent believes are private can be used as evidence to question that parent's judgment, parenting decisions, or overall stability. A post showing excessive drinking, unsafe company, or careless behavior around children can raise concerns for a judge deciding on parental responsibilities or parenting time.
Posts made in anger, particularly those criticizing a co-parent or discussing details of the case, can also reflect poorly on a parent, even if the comments feel justified in the moment. Courts may consider whether a parent's online behavior demonstrates an ability to cooperate and communicate in the child's best interests, since ongoing conflict displayed publicly can be seen as harmful to a child's well-being.
Being cautious about what you post, and who can see it, during a custody dispute is one of the simplest ways to avoid handing the other side unnecessary ammunition.
Can Social Media Posts Reveal Information About a Spouse's Assets?
Social media can also become financial evidence in a divorce. Posts showing recent purchases, vacations, new vehicles, or lifestyle changes can raise questions if they do not match the income or assets a spouse has portrayed to the court. Photos tagged at a business opening or new property can help confirm ownership interests a spouse may not have mentioned.
Activity on social media can even influence spousal support decisions. Posts suggesting a spouse is cohabiting with a new partner, earning undisclosed income, or living a lifestyle inconsistent with reported finances may prompt a court to reconsider the amount or duration of support awarded in the case going forward. Our firm can help document posts that benefit your case.
Contact Our Wheaton, IL Social Media and Divorce Attorneys
If you are going through a divorce, speak with one of our experienced family lawyers at Musielak & Rosinski LLC. Contact our Wheaton divorce lawyers or call 630-344-6525 to schedule a free initial consultation. We represent clients in DuPage County and Kendall County.