Social media has become imbedded in mainstream culture. Currently, a third (or more) of the world’s population uses these tools and this will jump to half of all humans in just a few years. At first glance, this seems to be a benign way to share and spread information. But once it’s out there, it’s out there forever. And make no mistake about it, any and all information that can be construed as even remotely negative, will certainly be used against the person that it is tied to.
Are you facing a divorce, custody or support case? If so, be wary of whatever you have put on-line. Items that seemed harmless at the time, are no longer innocuous. Now everything will be used against you – those pictures that tout your ability to party and being extremely ‘affectionate’ with others; the boasting you did about your ‘lavish’ lifestyle; the associations and people you are linked with ; the words of hate against your partner – all of it will come back to you in bright, neon lights.
Half of all new divorce cases include reference to the other spouse’s social media postings. And as these cases unfold, that information can play a key role in determining custody rights and financial obligations.
The best defense against this new reality is to stay completely away from all social media. Remember, humans have survived forever without it – it is not akin to food, water and air. At the very least, one should use it sparingly and be extremely cautious. If something gets out there, it’s out there forever.
For help with a divorce, child custody or family law disputes, contact The Law Offices of Gildin & Chapman to schedule a meeting with a skilled family law attorney.
