Are Social Networking Sites Fueling Divorce?
Popular social networking websites are now being blamed for divorce. As people use these websites on a daily basis, it is only natural that they are impacting their personal lives. Social networks have caused relationship breakdowns and given attorneys the evidence they need for court proceedings.
How Inappropriate Behavior on Social Media Can Lead to Divorce
A recent survey stated that social media was responsible for 1 in 5 divorces. Many participants said that their partner was engaging in inappropriate behavior online. This resulted in both physical and emotional affairs.
A social media website gives people the opportunity to connect with people they may have never contacted in real-life. For example, high school sweethearts can easily talk to one another after spending 20 years apart. When people are participating in online chats, they can feel a deep sense of intimacy.
This intimacy can lead to people making physical contact or starting emotional affairs. While experts believe couples in strained relationships are more at risk of infidelity, anybody can enter into an online relationship.
The Dangers of Using Social Media During Divorce Proceedings
In the past, divorce attorneys had to hire private investigators to get evidence. Today, couples are now putting evidence online themselves. Anything a person posts publicly can be used against them in court. Listed below are some situations where social media information can impact the outcome of the divorce.
- If a parent is accused of alcoholism, pictures of them drinking can be used as proof.
- Custody agreements can be affected if social media displays evidence of unauthorized trips, negligence or abuse.
- In one case, a man was charged with bigamy as one of his wives discovered images of him marrying another woman.
- Images of one partner with another person could be taken as proof of adultery.
- Status updates that contain information about dangerous, reckless or extreme situations can affect custody agreements.
- Pictures and status updates of and/or about material goods will affect child support payments, spousal support and division of property.
How to Protect a Relationship From Social Media
Because social media is so ingrained into everybody’s lives, it is impossible to ignore it. Asking a person not to use social media is also ineffective. The only way people can save their relationship from social media is by establishing guidelines about using social sites. Each partner should state what he or she deems as acceptable use. Couples should also ensure that they are not spending too much time on social media websites.
Each individual Toronto family lawyer at Fine & Associates will be able to assist you, no matter how big the problem may be. Divorce lawyers come in all shapes and sizes, so choose one that fits your needs.