According to data from Facebook and Instagram, approximately 80% of US adults have social media accounts. Unfortunately, many can’t appreciate and understand what is considered ‘okay’ to post on social media or what the possible repercussions could be. One of the first places an attorney would look to gather evidence is a personal social media account. So, if you’re active on social media, it’s important to learn some good practices when posting.
Posting on social media could affect your finances
If you’re trying to argue that you cannot pay your alimony payments because it’s too expensive, you should think twice before posting on social media. California is a 50/50 split state, which means whenever a couple divorces, all assets, and debts are equally divided. It’s a mystery why some people choose to post their lavish lifestyle online or posting pictures of them on shopping sprees. An attorney would be scouring the internet and your social media looking for these photos to show the judge that you’re lying and that you’re able to pay all payments. An attorney could even go as far as gaining more alimony or child support if a party decides to post pictures of them on a private jet, when that party is trying to state they can’t pay basic child support.
Although California is a no-fault state, a spouse could end up paying out more if they had an affair with someone during the marriage. A no-fault state means that a person does not need a reason or will not be punished for wanting a divorce. However in California, if a spouse spends community funds on the person they’re having an affair with, that spouse would be paying out of pocket for those costs. In simpler terms, if the cheating spouse bought expensive clothes, or a car for the person they’re cheating with, that spouse would need to pay out of their own pocket.
You could end up losing custody or visitation
If you’re in a battle with your spouse for child custody, or for more visitation rights, it’s important to avoid taking photos at parties or drinking excessively. A spouse who constantly posts themselves drunk at parties, or would post jokes about being out with friends more than seeing their own children, would have a higher chance of losing custody battles. Attorneys would immediately jump on these posts and show the judge how that spouse treats their children.
Use social media with caution
Before starting the divorce process, you’re gonna need to do a few things. First off, you have to turn all of your social media accounts to private. Go on Facebook and ‘‘Limit past posts,” which will automatically hide all old posts you’ve made. Do not post anything about your spouse, or the divorce process. We understand that these times are hard, and maybe your emotions are running high, but to make things easier for everyone it’s best to keep to yourself and to your lawyer. The most important thing to do is to not post about your wealth or lifestyle. This will ultimately be the main thing that will save you from many headaches in the future. Attorneys will be looking for any dirt to pull up to prove to the judge. As hard as it seems, you need to keep away from social media.
Contact Pride Legal
If you or a loved one has been involved in an Uber or Lyft accident, we invite you to contact us at Pride Legal for legal counseling or any further questions. To protect your rights, hire someone who understands them.