Have you ever posted something on social media and regretted it later? You’re not alone, around 57% of Americans have posted or texted something they later regret. When you’re going through a divorce, social media mistakes can increase your regret.

Ultimately, making bad decisions regarding your online behavior during a divorce can impact your court proceedings. Divorce is already messy, and we want to help you get through this time with as little regret as possible.

Before you hit the send button, keep reading to learn what social media and divorce mistakes to avoid.

A Fair Warning

Everything you say, write or do to your spouse, children, in-laws or friends you’ve posted on social media can and will be used against you. This is especially true regarding today’s use of social media (i.e. Facebook, Twitter, Threads, Instagram, YouTube, Reddit, Vine, Snapchat, etc.) where negative social media comments and pictures cause more harm than good.

Keep your pictures of yourself, your children and your significant other(s) out of social media. Furthermore, keep your comments about your life, your spouse, his/her parents, his/her love life out of social media. And while it may feel good, it often comes back to haunt/hurt you. It’s best to stop and “go dark.”

If you can’t stop, try limiting yourself to posting pictures of pets, nature and inspirational thoughts.

Don’t Discuss the Details of Your Divorce

Sharing the details of your divorce on social media may seem like a way to seek support, but it can lead to unintended consequences. Revealing specifics about your case could impact ongoing legal proceedings. Expect anything posted online to be used as evidence against you in court.

Discussing sensitive information publicly can also escalate tensions between you and your ex-spouse. It’s best to keep personal matters private. Discretion protects you legally and minimizes potential conflict with your partner.

Don’t Speak Poorly About Your Spouse

Talking negatively about your spouse on social media may feel therapeutic at the moment, but these posts can damage both reputations. Friends and family might take sides, complicating relationships.

Criticism online can also be seen by lawyers and judges involved in divorce proceedings. Your words could influence legal outcomes or child custody decisions. A risk that’s often underestimated until it’s too late.

Consider how public comments affect not just you but your children as well. They are likely to see these posts or hear about them from peers.

Avoid Oversharing

Sharing your feelings and experiences might feel natural but consider the potential fallout. Personal details about your emotional state or legal proceedings may be scrutinized later.

Social media is not a therapy session. Posting intimate thoughts can invite unwelcome judgment from friends, family and strangers. Additionally, sharing too much can affect future relationships, both personal and professional.

Don’t Assume Your Posts Are Private

Even if you think you’re protecting your privacy on social media, friends and followers can share or screenshot posts. Once something is online, it takes on a life of its own.

During a divorce, this can have serious implications. A seemingly harmless post might reach unintended audiences, including your spouse’s family or legal representatives. Ultimately, this can cause misunderstandings or even affect court decisions related to custody or assets.

If in Doubt, Use Caution

If you feel uncertain about what to post, it’s best to pause before sharing anything online. Taking a moment to think might save you from future regrets.

Consider the potential consequences of your posts. Even seemingly harmless updates can be misinterpreted or taken out of context.

During Divorce Avoid Social Media

Taking extra care with your online presence will help you focus on healing and rebuilding after your divorce while avoiding unnecessary drama caused by social media mistakes.

At Doerner, we’re here to help you through every aspect of your divorce. We’re known for skillful problem-solving in even the most complex of cases. Contact us for a consultation, and let us guide you through this process.