Going through a divorce is not something we want to broadcast. Sometimes it’s not something we want people to know about, and frankly, it’s no one else’s business to a certain extent. And although there are significant confidentiality rules in place, the fact of the matter is, divorce files are public records and therefore, are available to anyone, at any time.
Due to the Freedom of Information laws that have been passed, these files can be accessed by anyone without the need for a real reason for viewing them, and furthermore, can be searched on the internet. Ultimately, the only true way to keep your most personal information private is to simply not have them on record in the first place. Yes, divorce often delves into very private and sensitive information and topics, but that doesn’t mean it has to be completely exposed.
In the end, some of the information that goes public includes but not limited to financial information, property settlement agreements, and psych evaluations if there is a custody battle. However, it is often what is not true, yet still remains on the record, that can be the most damaging. Deliberately false, and wild accusations still make their way to the record and can be just as easily manipulated and used against one of the parties as any other piece of information.