In American society, most people are dependent on electronic devices as a means of communication. For some people, posting status updates on Facebook, pictures on Instagram, and having conversations with multiple people at the same time through texting, is the way that they interact with others the most. And on social media platforms like Facebook, users tend to document their activities every minute of every day and also resort to social media to complain, rant, and rave about whatever happens to be bothering them. Even better, when these individuals are involved in divorce and family law proceedings, they provide “evidence” of the other parent’s misdeeds through screenshots of the other parent’s Instagram page and lengthy text message conversations.
The bottom line is that when you are involved in any type of divorce or custody proceeding, you need to expect that everyone will be looking at your activities on social media sites, your photos on Instagram, and messages sent via Facebook Messenger. Therefore, the best policy is simply to refrain from posting, tagging, sending online messages, and even texting about your divorce or any other issues that would be relevant to your case. While you don’t have to cease all electronic communications, you don’t need to post a lengthy rant on Facebook about how your ex is a big jerk. Too many people potentially can see that post, and bashing your ex in the midst of a divorce or other family law proceeding is a definite no-no.
For example, suppose that your ex-wife has asked the court to order you to pay child support. You represent to the court that you are unemployed, have no other source of income, and perhaps even have a medical condition that prevents you from working. As a result of your statements, the court orders that you pay only a minimal amount of child support. Three months later, your ex-wife brings in evidence that not only are you able to work, but that you are evidently making quite a bit of money, since you took a recent vacation to Hawaii. Where did she get this evidence? She got it from your own Facebook page, where you posted pictures of your vacation and information about your great job.
The attorneys at Pacific Northwest Family Law know how to handle all aspects of Washington divorce and family law cases. Whether we are able to resolve your case through alternative dispute resolution or must proceed to trial, we are here to help and give you the advice that you need. Contact our office by e-mailing us at [email protected] or call us at 877-738-07777to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced divorce lawyers today.
