The use of Facebook and other online social networks as a source of evidence for Atlanta divorce lawyers, and attorneys everywhere, is nothing new. But, as a recent USA Today article reminds us, it's a topic that's always worth revisiting; especially since a recent survey found that more than 80% divorce attorneys have seen an increase in the use of Facebook evidence.
The bottom line is that too many people take a cavalier approach to their online personas, posting pictures or making comments that can be read by just about anyone and printed out as part of a permanent record.
USA Today's CyberSpeak technology columnist Kim Komando offers a few tips to help divorcing partners protect their Facebook accounts from the prying eyes of opposing counsel. What's most astonishing (she uses the word "appalling") is her comment that sometimes people don't find out their spouse is divorcing them until they read about it on their Facebook page.
First of all, she says to watch out for "frenemies," people who you've friended into your network but who may not be completely on your side. Usually, this becomes an issue with mutual friends of you and your estranged spouse.
So in addition to not trashing your spouse, posting pictures of new lovers or bragging about big purchases, it's also a good idea to be cautious with new friend requests. "They could be imposters," the columnist warns.
Second, think about what your children may think of a particular post or picture. Kids use social networks quite extensively, and you never know which networks are connected to yours.
Third, she says to be honest with your Facebook activity or at least keep your stories straight. For example, don't claim financial hardship in court if you've posted a picture of your new sports car.
And in general, she says, you must tread carefully while using your social networking account. One example she gives is to avoid spending a lot of time on Facebook (which records the date and time of postings) if you're supposed to be attending your child's baseball game; it just reflects poorly on a parent's character.
Ask a Georgia family law attorney if you have additional questions.
Related Resources:
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Call an Atlanta Family Law Attorney (FindLaw)
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Questioning The Value of Facebook During Divorce (FindLaw's KnowledgeBase)
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