It comes as no surprise that during a divorce emotions tend to run high. Very few of us, when faced with one of life’s most traumatic events are able to remain calm and detached at all times.  We all have a tendency to want to circle the wagons, round up our allies  and disparage those who may have hurt us. We also tend to brag about our conquests in order to bolster our failing self-confidence. The modern break-up almost invariably includes a ubiquitous third party, one whom we think is helping but , who can actually do a great deal of harm.  That third party is Facebook.

According to an ABC News report, one third of all divorce filings in 2011 contained the word Facebook.  More than 80 per cent of surveyed members of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers say that issues involving social networking in divorce proceedings is on the rise.

Facebook pages are frequently used as evidence in court to prove many facts- that parties are unfit parents, that they are dissipating marital funds, that they can afford child support in light of the new tatoos they are sporting and their trips across the country with new friends.  Posting boozy, carousing or sexually explicit photos in the midst of contentious divorce is just plain unwise.  You may wind up paying for things you posted quite some time ago too.

During a divorce, try to think about just how important it really is for an adult to announce his or her whereabouts and activities constantly  to  “friends.” Some folks have a very hard time abandoning the practice, even when their lawyer recommends it.  If you must post,  think about how you would feel if you saw a post like the one you are getting ready to put up and especially what the judge would think when she sees it.

Should you have any questions about your divorce or paternity issues, please give my office a call to arrange a consult.