Many MN family law matters involve social media implications. We live in the age of technology. In the last ten years, social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have become increasingly popular. Social media has become a convenient way to stay connected with friends and family with the touch of a button. It is common for many people to post things about their lives or recent happenings. However, amidst a legal proceeding, a post, message, picture, or tweet can have a great impact.
Social Media Evidence
Since social media is widely used, information regarding a person has become increasingly discoverable. Many people post details about their lives including: employment, relationships, hobbies, children, vacations, or assets like cars, boats, or houses. In the case of a family law matter, theses posts may be used against you in a court proceeding. If one party claims to not be able to afford child support or spousal maintenance but posts about their recent job promotion or one party posts pictures of inappropriate behavior during their parenting time, the evidence can be very damaging.
Just as a potential employer would check your social media before hiring, it is very possible the opposing side may do the same. There are guidelines for how social media evidence can be discovered. However, any public post that can be seen by the world may be allowed. If one of your followers shares a post with the opposing party, it may also be admissible.
Managing your Social Media
If you are going through a legal proceeding, this is the time to go through your social media. Deactivating or disabling your account is the easiest way to avoid posting something problematic or damaging to your case. Another idea to protect your social media would be to update your privacy settings. When making your account private, only your followers and friends can see your posts and photos. Those who do not ask permission to follow you cannot see your social media.
The best advice for knowing what or what not to post is to consider how it may impact your matter. Will you be okay with the post becoming an exhibit in court? It is always best to assume your media will be a court exhibit and will be held against you.
If you have questions about the how social media could impact your family law matter, contact our office today. Our experienced family law lawyers are prepared with strategies and knowledge for even the most conflicted matters. To schedule your initial consultation, call our office at (763) 783-5146 or by submitting an online contact inquiry through our website. We are always here to help.