Social media has efficiently integrated itself permanently into our everyday lives. Utilizing it is inevitable for some of us, as our whole lives and careers revolve around social media, and all the connections we have through it. However, it can often serve as a severe hindrance in divorce cases, and have a serious impact on multiple settlement proceedings.

One example is any connections you may have that are “mutual” friends with your spouse. Often, parties will delete each other on social media, in an attempt to protect themselves from having anything they post used against them in court. However, you can utilize these mutual friends to your advantage, or disadvantage depending on who you are, to act, for lack of a better word, spy. For instance, your spouse may claim they aren’t able to pay for any type of support, yet they post pictures of themselves, spending lavishly on expensive vacations. This is a good way to also show that your spouse is hiding assets from you and the court.

In addition to social media, texts, emails and other basic communication methods that are particularly in writing are other good sources of harmful information that can easily be subpoenaed and meticulously inspected for anything that can help during your divorce trial. For instance, there might be inclinations of a raise from their job, or, again, an expensive leisure trip. All of this can be very useful, or injurious, sources of “evidence” that your spouse is not being completely honest.

Remember, social media posts can affect the outcome of your divorce. Therefore, it is best, in the long run, to stay off social media, such as twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, or at the very least limit yourself and exercise serious mindfulness when you are posting anything. At the same time, be very vigilant with regard to what your spouse posts or writes, as it can serve you well in court.