Why Taking a Social Media Break During a Divorce is a Smart Move

When you’re going through a divorce, it can be tempting to turn to social media for support, a much-needed distraction, or even just to vent. But before you hit “post,” take a pause. What may feel like harmless sharing in the moment can have lasting consequences in a family law case.

At The Law Office of Kristen Bishop Ames, we often remind clients that once something is posted online, it’s effectively permanent, even if you delete it later. Screenshots and shares can all come back in ways you never intended.

Here are several reasons why taking a social media break during your divorce may be one of the best decisions you can make.

1. Every Post Can Become Evidence

Social media is frequently used in court proceedings. Photos, check-ins, and even “likes” can be used to question a person’s honesty, financial situation, or behavior. Even innocent updates can be taken out of context or misinterpreted. It’s safer to step back than to risk a seemingly harmless post being used in a courtroom.

2. Privacy Settings Don’t Guarantee Privacy

Even if your profile is set to private, posts can still be circulated. Mutual friends can share, screenshot, or forward content, sometimes unintentionally. In some cases, courts can compel access to social media accounts if the content is relevant to issues in the case, such as parenting, income, and lifestyle. When it comes to sensitive situations like divorce, there’s really no such thing as “only between friends.”

3. Emotional Posting Can Backfire

Divorce brings strong emotions, and it’s natural to want to express them. But online, those emotions can appear as anger, blame, or instability. Posts written in frustration can be used to portray you negatively or suggest hostility toward your former spouse. In high-conflict situations, it is easy for words to be misinterpreted. Taking a break gives you space to process your feelings privately, not publicly. Take this time to focus on yourself, your goals, and your next steps.

4. Safety Matters: Especially in High-Conflict Divorces

Finally, we would be remiss not to mention this one during Domestic Awareness Month: contentious or emotionally charged divorces, privacy isn’t just about image, it’s about personal safety. Location tags, live videos, or casual check-ins can unintentionally reveal your whereabouts or daily routines. Limiting or pausing social media activity helps prevent unwanted contact, digital monitoring, or potential confrontations. Protecting your physical and emotional safety should always come first.

Final Thoughts

Sometimes, what you don't post says the most about your character.

Taking a social media break can be difficult, especially if the other party continues to post frequently. But stepping away is worth it to protect your privacy, safety, and peace of mind during a major life transition. You don’t owe the internet an update, and staying offline for a while can be one of the healthiest choices you make for yourself and your case.

If you’re unsure how to manage your online presence during a divorce, our team at The Law Office of Kristen Bishop Ames can help guide you through the process, both legally and strategically.

Contact Us

This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.