Social media plays a big part in our daily activities. We use it to keep up with friends and family, find new recipes and decorating ideas, and discover events in our community.
But, if you are in the middle of a child custody case, you may want to reconsider your online activities.
Social media dos and don’ts
When determining what’s in a child’s best interest and custody, the court considers several factors, such as:
- Parenting ability
- Physical and emotional health of the parent
- The parent-child bond
- Substance abuse
Our social media posts provide information in these areas, so courts are increasingly turning to them for insight regarding a parent’s ability to provide a stable home environment for their child.
Therefore, it may be best to avoid social media entirely. However, many people are reluctant to do so. In that case, here are some dos and don’ts to remember.
Do:
- Think before you post anything, and consider the possible implications. If the other parent can use it against you, it’s best not to post it.
- Make sure your settings are set to private to limit what others see. Don’t accept any new friend requests. Remember, someone can share screenshots or share anything you post.
- Promote positivity by sharing posts that show loving interactions between you and your child.
Don’t:
- Post negative comments about your ex-spouse.
- Share details regarding your case.
- Post any inappropriate content showing reckless behavior or anything that can be interpreted as irresponsible.
While social media is engaging and provides a way to pass the time, nothing is more important than the time you spend with your child. Your online actions can have consequences, so you may want to discuss your situation with someone who can guide you on what you should and should not be posting.
