In this high tech media age, users young and old are turning to social media to connect with family, friends, and to find romantic partners. This seems friendly on the surface but there are drawbacks. Facebook in particular is coming up as evidence used in court for cases of divorce and child custody.
More than a third of divorce filings last year contained the word Facebook in the filing. Over 80% of U.S. divorce attorneys say they have seen a rise in the number of cases using social media, according to the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.
So why is Facebook so unique? Affairs happen so quickly on Facebook, more than any other social media site. On Facebook, just a few clicks can start a relationship. It reconnects old flames and allows people to “friend” someone they don’t know or have met in passing. Facebook has a deceptively comfortable forum that feels safe and allows people to vent their feelings. For example, one woman allegedly used Facebook to hire a hitman to kill her partner. Another woman found out that her husband wanted a divorce because he posted it on Facebook. The list of these examples goes on and on. In short, social media may cause temptation that might not otherwise arise.
The attorneys at Stange Law Firm, PC are not advocating that people discontinue the use of Facebook, but just know what is posted could be used for or against you in court. Facebook along with other social media, if used properly, can be an extremely effective tool.
You may contact us at 314-963-4700 or Saint Louis Divorce Attorneys. In addition to our comprehensive website, you will be able to access our blog sites as well as finding us on Facebook and Twitter. We will gladly receive your comments and reply. There you will find a plethora of information and articles. At Stange Law Firm, we use our extensive knowledge of the law and passion for justice to get the best possible results for clients. We can set up a free one-hour consultation to discuss options that are available to you. We look forward to hearing from you.