Courts increasingly consider social media activity when making custody decisions. A judge may scrutinize posts, comments and interactions for insights into a parent’s lifestyle, behavior and ability to provide a stable environment for their children. Inappropriate or indiscreet postings can affect a parent’s case adversely, potentially leading to unfavorable custody and parenting time determinations.
Parents must exercise caution and discretion with their social media habits. This includes avoiding negative posts about the other parent, refraining from sharing details or developments related to the custody case and considering the potential impact of all online activity on the court’s perception of their character and parenting abilities.
Social media guidelines for parents
Adopting a strategic approach to social media use is imperative for parents in a child custody case. Limiting online activity and scrutinizing any content that could be perceived negatively is a good idea. This includes posts that depict or suggest irresponsible behavior, such as excessive use of alcohol, use of illegal substances or engagement in risky activities.
Legal considerations and privacy settings
In addition to monitoring content, parents should also be aware of privacy settings on their social media accounts. Adjusting these settings to restrict who can view posts and information is a proactive step in safeguarding one’s online presence. Yet, it is also essential to remember that privacy settings aren’t foolproof. Shared friends or mutual connections can relay information to the other parent or their legal team. Screenshots can easily keep posts alive long after they’ve been deleted.
For parents who are going through a divorce, staying off social media might be the best choice. If they opt to continue to use these services, they should exercise caution. Seeking guidance about what’s appropriate can make informed decisions easier to make.