Divorce attorneys agree that Facebook and other social networking sites such as MySpace and Twitter are being used for more than just meeting new people and catching up with old friends.
According to a recent survey by the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), Facebook is the leader in social networking sites used to gather dirt spouses can use against each other during a divorce. In addition, 81% percent of the academy’s members have seen an increase in divorce cases involving evidence collected off social networking sites. Regarding Facebook, in particular, 66% of the attorneys who responded to the AAML’s survey say that most of their clients use Facebook to gather their evidence.
What’s the lesson to be learned from the AAML’s survey? If you are going through a divorce or are planning to file for divorce, cancel your Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, or any other accounts you may have. Believe it when we say an estranged spouse can easily twist around something you posted on Facebook and turn it into ammunition to use against you. You know those pictures you posted of your guy’s night out at the bar? The ones showing you with a drink in your hand? Even though you may not have been plastered your ex can claim you’re an alcoholic and that you drink most nights of the week. Do you think a judge will like hearing that? Remember that girl’s night you had at the dance club? Your ex might claim you engage inappropriate behavior, and that you’re a bad influence to your children.
The point is anything you post on these sites can be turned around and thrown in your face. To protect yourself it’s best to just delete your accounts before your ex-spouse obtains damaging evidence that may hurt your interests in regards to child custody, child support, spousal maintenance or property division.
If you are interested in scheduling a consultation with an experienced Denver divorce attorney, feel free to contact Denver Family Lawyers today at (303) 225-3343.