Dating websites and social media can cause troubles for marriage, divorce

March 07, 2013

Finding old romantic partners through Facebook and using online dating sites have become increasingly popular in recent years. One such website, eHarmony, has over 20 million registered users, while Match.com has 15 million members. Facebook has over one billion active members worldwide. But not all of these users are single, even when actively looking for dates online. While estimates are difficult to come by, a recent poll by the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers found that nearly 60 percent of divorce attorneys have seen an increase in the use of dating websites as evidence in a divorce case. Similarly, 57 percent of family law attorneys reported that the "relationship status" listed on such websites was a source of evidence. Soon-to-be divorced people also tend to fudge their salary and occupation on dating websites, along with their parental status, the AAML reported -- none of which looks particularly good during a divorce case.

Facebook has been a notorious place for divorce lawyers to mine for information. It is not just attempts at dating that can backfire; angry comments posted online about the divorce or a spouse may ultimately harm a parent's ability to obtain custody of children. Compromising photos such as alcohol and drug use may provide ammunition against a divorcing spouse. According to the AAML, one-third of all divorce filings in 2011 contained the word "Facebook."

Social media habits die hard

Social media has come to play a dominate role in today's society. Last December, Twitter announced they had more than 200 million active users. People have become used to expressing their thoughts and feelings throughout the day to friends and followers immediately. This habit can be hard to break.

Yet many family law attorneys urge their clients to be as discreet as possible when using social media. One off-the-cuff tweet can be used as evidence against paying alimony, for example. It may be best to simply shut down Twitter feeds and Facebook posts for the duration of the divorce. If that is not possible or desirable, a good rule of thumb is to post nothing that you wouldn't say in front of a judge at divorce court.

During the dissolution of a marriage it can be tempting to vent emotions or attempt to move on with life by meeting other people. While these emotions are understandable, publicly posting such information can be detrimental to a divorce case. People who are divorcing or contemplating divorce should contact an experienced divorce lawyer to discuss their options.

Article provided by Dwire Law Offices, P.A.
Visit us at www.divorceminnesota.com