Virginia has one of the lowest divorce rates in the country. Approximately 9.9 percent of Virginia residents have gone through a divorce. If you are included in this statistic, there are numerous things you can do during the actual divorce process to make things easier on yourself.
Many experts recommend having a support network of people to talk to and staying involved in activities that make you happy. Additionally, it is important to be mindful of your social media use during a divorce. You can make your life more difficult by using Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and other social media in an indiscriminate manner.
Your spending habits are on full display
Many couples worry whether the other spouse has hidden assets. You may have claimed a certain income to your attorney, but perhaps your Facebook profile shows you just purchased a new car. Regardless of how you acquired the new vehicle, your ex may become suspicious and you could be forced to defend something completely innocuous.
It is vital to remember that your Facebook posts and pictures can be used as evidence in court. Be mindful of what you share and comment on.
It can affect the parenting plan
The photos you post on social media may not show you in a positive light. When a parenting plan is being determined, your ex could use certain Facebook photos of you — partying and drinking, for example — to claim that you are not fit as a parent.
If you are prone to social interactions that could be used against you, it may be best to delete your social media pages or profiles entirely during this time. You do not want friends tagging you in less-than-flattering pictures.
You can put friends and family in awkward positions
The last thing you want to do on social media is post a long rant berating your former spouse. You may share friends with your ex, and now you put them in awkward positions to pick a side.
If you have children with your ex, your kids may see negatively themed posts. It is very important for children to maintain respect for both of their parents, even during a divorce. You can vent to your close friends in person, but keep your dirty laundry off Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and other public platforms.
