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Social Media and Divorce Firms |
| Date Added: April 18, 2010 09:07:42 PM |
| Author: Stacy Rocheleau |
| Category: Business & Economy: Law |
| Facebook, Twitter and other social media sites are a terrific way to stay in touch with friends, family and business associates. The social media phenomenon is changing our culture and encouraging us to share everything about our lives with others. While as a mature adults we may not be loading embarrassing videos or posting “politically incorrect” statements we still need to be cautious if going through divorce or child custody issue on what we share. The American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) issued a recommendation that people going through divorce, contemplating divorce, or engaged in a custody battle stay off all social networking sites such as Facebook, MySpace, or Twitter. Online behavior is easy to track, easily accessible, and any postings may actually damage their litigation position. Going through a divorce or child custody issue will undoubtedly result in heightened levels of personal scrutiny. “If you publicly post any contradictions to previously made statements and promises, an estranged spouse will certainly be one of the first people to notice and make use of that evidence," said Marlene Eskind Moses, president of the AAML. For example, if someone in a child support or alimony fight posts recent profile photos showing a new car or photos of the family while on a vacation, since finances are at issue, a good attorney is going to use print-outs of those postings in court to refute allegations of poverty and attempt to recover a greater award for his or her client. Other photos that are commonly used are of parents drinking alcohol (even a wine glass on the table shows up in photos!) inferences to drug use, sexual or pornographic activity, even comments posted by others - no matter how innocent it may seem at the time – these may all be used against you to influence child custody decisions. If you are using social media for business reasons, follow these guidelines: 1. Never mention your personal life. Make it all business. If you must have a daily presence use quotes or promote someone else. 2. DO NOT change your relationship status until things are finalized. 3. Don’t upload any new pictures or videos. Period. 4. Change your privacy setting so only friends can see your activity. 5. Be wary of new friend requests. Do not accepting unless you really know them. So remember, if you don’t want the opposing side to know it, don’t post it. And because you never know what can be used against you, less is always best. |
