Keep your Divorce Off your Facebook Page

Today’s social media platforms can offer us a wide variety of communication tools that make the world seem very small. The many advantages that come with instantaneous and free global contact cannot be overstated. There are, however dangers in exposing your personal life to online users worldwide, especially if you are in the process of divorcing. 

NBA star Steve Nash and his ex wife Alejandra Menrath were dealt gag orders forbidding the divorced couple from disparaging each other on Twitter and other social media platforms. The Arizona Court of Appeals upheld an earlier decision to enforce the gag order. Nash is attempting to thwart Menrath’s petition to relocate from Arizona to California, while she has been using social media to vent about the process. 

Most divorce attorneys are now recommending that couples observe a social media blackout during the process, or at the very least observe some simple rules to protect your integrity: 

• Never post about courtroom proceedings — even judges have Facebook
• Adjust privacy settings — your spouse and his or her friends could be reading anything you post
• Keep it clean — never post photos of yourself drinking, partying or being otherwise indiscreet while in a custody battle or divorce process
• Don’t compromise attorney-client privilege — never discuss publically anything your attorney says privately 

While tidbits gleaned from your Facebook and Twitter feeds may or may not be admissible in court, it is a good idea not to give anyone — especially your spouse’s attorney — ammunition that can be used against you. 

Everyone needs a way to vent and release the stress of a divorce in a social setting. Do so in person with friends in a safe and confidential setting until your divorce is over. Then you can change your relationship status and rest assured you have taken the social media high road. 

A smooth divorce begins with a savvy and experienced divorce attorney. We serve the Buffalo area and Western New York.