You’re getting divorced for a second time, and this time you’re in your 50s. You know a lot that you learned from your first divorce – after all, most people go into this rather blind and inexperienced the first time – and you know it’s going to help you avoid mistakes.
It absolutely can, but you also have to remember that changes in technology can make this second divorce far different than your first, especially if there are decades in between. Below are some critical social media tips you want to keep in mind this time around.
1. Don’t post pictures of what you buy.
Pictures of purchases can make it harder for you to seek spousal support. They make it look like you have too much disposable income, and you may end up with less support than you want. For example, if you’re trying to get a significant monthly payment and then post photos of a brand new car, the judge may feel that you don’t need support – you just need to buy less and save more.
It is fair to note that you want to avoid posting pictures of things that are not necessary. Of course you have expenses. Everyone does. But there’s a difference between buying what you need and buying a $1,000 coat or a 75-inch television.
2. Hold back on those vacation photos.
You want to show your friends and family how much you’re enjoying your trip to the Bavarian Alps or the Caribbean, but this can also be dangerous. The reasoning here is the same as the above. Vacations are seen as frivolous purchases. They can also be used as evidence if your spouse claims you’re trying to spend as much money as possible so that he or she can’t get a fair share when assets are divided. The judge could rule that your spouse now gets more because you already spent some of your portion.
3. Don’t post about your spouse.
Don’t write status updates about how mad you are at your spouse. Don’t expose any details of the marriage or the divorce. Don’t try to make him or her look bad. Don’t try to get your kids on your side and cause division. All of these thoughts need to remain private. Yes, you’re frustrated and it’s all you think about. That’s fine, but don’t post it in public, for the world to see.
4. Don’t stalk your spouse’s activity.
This never helps, and it can create brand new arguments. The best thing to do is to keep your distance during divorce. It’s also wise to update your own privacy settings if you want to make sure your spouse can’t see what you’re doing.
Social media has changed the world, and it’s changed divorce. Make sure you know how to use it properly, how it can impact your divorce case, and when and how online information can be used as evidence during the case.