Social Media Considerations When You're in a Custody Fight

It's challenging to go online when you're in the middle of a custody fight. You may be tempted to post a rant that totally trashes your ex to all your mutual friends. However, nothing can be gained from that, and much could be lost. Instead, take the high road on social media every step of the way before, during, and after a custody fight. Here are some important considerations when you are determining what you should post on social media during a custody battle. If in doubt, consult with your child custody lawyer.

Consideration #1: Leave All Mentions of Custody Off Social Media

Your social media accounts allow you to reach a lot of people you know all at once. That presents a tempting opportunity to post about the custody battle when you feel you've been wronged. After all, who wouldn't like the chance to be heard when they are very upset about something? It's never worth it, though. Play it safe and don't mention the custody battle on social media at all.

Keep discussion of custody off social media altogether. Don't even discuss it in comments on other friends' threads. Lawyers (and your ex) may also scroll through the social media pages of friends and others you know to see if they can find something you are posting that you shouldn't be.

Consideration #2: Don't Show Your Kids' Faces Online at All

Although you may want to show off your adorable little ones, try to do so sparingly. Take photographs of them in profile or looking out the window where you don't have to reveal their faces. How much you want to share about your kids online is up to you and your ex. However, if you two haven't formally agreed about social media posting, it's best to leave your kids off the internet altogether to avoid possible arguments about that during the custody case.

Consideration #3: Keep Your Cool or Stay Off Social Media Altogether

When you're angry, you may be tempted to report posts on your ex's page. In fact, when you go to an ex's page to see how they are handling their social media during the custody battle, you may be unpleasantly surprised to see that they are posting negative things about you. If they are doing so, contact your child custody lawyer immediately, but do not respond to it. Don't follow their lead and post similar things about them. Instead, keep your cool, or you should not sign into social media at all during the custody dispute.

Finally, keep in mind that your child custody lawyer can help you determine how to best protect your legal interests throughout your custody battle. Always err on the side of caution when it comes to social media posts. Overall, it's best to keep your posts positive and never personal.