Your posts can haunt your divorce case. A single photo, comment, or joke can twist the truth and damage your position in court. You may feel lonely, angry, or tempted to defend yourself online. That urge is human. It is also dangerous. Judges, lawyers, and even children can see what you share. Opposing counsel can print your posts and use them against you. Every like, tag, and message becomes evidence. Foley Freeman, PLLC has seen social media turn strong cases into painful losses. This blog shows what not to share while your case is active. You will see how to protect your future by staying quiet online. You will learn what posts raise red flags. You will also see how to handle friends who pull you into online drama. Your story deserves care. Your social media needs discipline.
Why social media becomes evidence
Court rules treat your posts like spoken words under oath. You may delete a post. The other side may already have a screenshot. You may think your settings keep you safe. One shared post can break that wall.
Courts often see social media used to question:
- Your honesty
- Your parenting
- Your use of money
The National Center for State Courts explains that electronic messages and posts can become digital evidence that judges rely on in real cases. You can read more at the NCSC technology in the courts resource guide.
What not to post during your divorce
You may feel pressure to show that you are fine. You may want support from others. During a divorce, silence on social media protects you more than any public story.
1. Do not post about your case
- Do not complain about the judge
- Do not insult your former partner
- Do not share court papers
- Do not talk about hearings or orders
Any comment can sound like you ignore court authority. That can hurt you when a judge decides custody or support.
2. Do not post about parenting fights
- Do not argue about children in public threads
- Do not share private messages about parenting
- Do not post photos that show unsafe behavior
Courts focus on your child’s safety and your ability to co parent. A bitter or mocking post can suggest that you put anger above your child.
3. Do not post about money or spending
- Do not show new purchases
- Do not brag about trips or events
- Do not display cash or gifts
These posts can clash with what you say about support, debt, or need. They can damage your trust with the court.
4. Do not post new romantic relationships
- Do not share photos with new partners
- Do not change relationship status during the case
- Do not post about dating apps
These posts can inflame conflict. They can also affect questions about parenting time, use of shared money, or safety.
5. Do not use social media to vent anger
- Do not threaten or insult anyone
- Do not encourage others to attack your former partner
- Do not share private secrets to shame someone
Courts may see these posts as emotional harm or harassment. That can affect protective orders and parenting plans.
See also: Moerie Lawsuit Update: Latest Developments
High risk posts: a quick comparison
| Type of post | Common example | How it can hurt your case |
|---|---|---|
| Angry rant | Long post attacking your former partner | Shows poor control. Can harm custody and credibility. |
| Party photo | Late night drinking while children are with you | Raises concern about safety and judgment. |
| Spending brag | New car or trip while claiming money hardship | Undercuts claims about support or need. |
| New romance | Posts of new partner in the home | Stirs conflict. Can raise concerns about children’s stress. |
| Child photos with comments | Captions that blame the other parent | Suggests you pull children into adult conflict. |
| Messages to your former partner | Harsh direct messages or comments | Can support claims of emotional abuse or harassment. |
Privacy settings are not enough
Private accounts feel safe. They are not safe during a court case. A friend can share or screenshot your content. A child can show a post to the other parent. A single “share” can move your private words into public view.
Common myths include:
- “If I delete it, it is gone.”
- “If my profile is private, the court cannot see it.”
- “If I use a fake name, no one will know.”
Courts can order production of social media content. Some posts also remain on company servers. The Federal Trade Commission explains that many services collect and keep user data in ways you may not expect. You can review guidance at the FTC online privacy page.
How to handle pressure from others
You may face pressure from friends or family who want public support. You may also feel baited by posts that attack you.
Use three simple rules:
- Do not respond online. Respond through your lawyer if needed.
- Do not let others post on your behalf.
- Do not share private court news in group chats.
You can say one clear line. For example. “My lawyer told me not to discuss the case online. I need to protect my children and my case.” Then end the talk.
Safer choices during your case
You do not need to quit every platform. You do need strict limits. You can:
- Log out during emotional times
- Use social media only to read news or neutral content
- Avoid posting photos, comments, or stories about your personal life
- Keep all posts kind and plain
If you feel the urge to post, pause. Then ask three questions.
- Would I want a judge to read this out loud in court
- Could this hurt my child if they saw it later
- Does this match what I am saying under oath
If any answer is no, do not post.
Protect your case by protecting your silence
Your divorce is stressful. You may want others to see your pain. The court will judge you by your choices, not your feelings. Careful silence on social media is not weakness. It is strength that guards your children, your rights, and your future.
You can gain support in safer ways. You can talk with trusted people in private. You can seek counseling through licensed providers. You can ask your lawyer how each action might affect your case. Every quiet choice you make online today can steady your life after the case ends.
