Social Media & Divorce: The Posts That Can Cost You Big

If you’re in the middle of a divorce, here’s one piece of advice you might not expect: Put your phone down.

It’s tempting—so, so tempting—to vent about your ex online. Maybe it’s a cryptic quote about some people never changing, or a casual flex of your new post-divorce glow-up. But guess what? Your social media posts can and will be used against you in court.

According to the American Bar Association, 81% of divorce attorneys report an increase in cases using social media evidence.

Divorce lawyers aren’t just digging through bank statements—they’re scrolling through your Instagram, too.

How Social Media Can Wreck Your Divorce Case

Social media is like a digital diary—except instead of a lock and key, it’s on full display for lawyers, judges, and even your ex’s family to dissect. Here’s how a single post can create massive legal trouble:

🚨 “I’m broke” vs. Luxury Vacation Pics – If you’re claiming financial hardship but posting photos from a lavish getaway, it could impact alimony or asset division.

🚨 Party Pics & Custody Battles – A “fun night out” post can be twisted into a bad parent narrative if you’re fighting for custody.

🚨 New Relationship? Not So Fast. – If you start posting about a new partner before your divorce is final, it could lead to accusations of infidelity (even if it’s innocent).

🚨 Emotional Outbursts – Ranting about your ex online might feel therapeutic, but it can paint you as hostile or unstable in court.

🚨 Deleting Posts = Suspicious Activity – Think erasing a questionable tweet will save you? Nope. If you delete posts once legal proceedings begin, it might be seen as destroying evidence.

The Social Media Survival Guide for Divorce

Want to avoid social media sabotage? Follow these golden rules:

Tighten Your Privacy Settings – Make sure only close friends can see your posts (but remember, screenshots exist).

Think Before You Post – If a judge wouldn’t approve of it, don’t share it.

No Divorce Drama Online – Avoid vague, passive-aggressive posts. Even a simple “Can’t believe people are this selfish” can backfire.

Pause on Major Life Announcements – Hold off on posting about a new job, house, or relationship until your divorce is final.

Tell Friends & Family to Keep You Off Their Posts – Even if you’re careful, being tagged in a party pic or financial flex could still hurt your case.

What If Your Ex is Posting About You?

If your ex is using social media to spread false information or harass you:

Don’t engage. The worst thing you can do is start an online battle.

Document everything. Screenshot damaging posts in case you need legal proof.

Talk to your lawyer. They can advise on restraining orders or legal action if necessary.

Final Thoughts: Social Media is Forever

The golden rule of social media and divorce? If in doubt, log out.

Your posts can be used as evidence, twisted out of context, and even cost you financially or emotionally. The best move? Keep your personal life offline, focus on your fresh start, and save the big “new chapter” posts for when the ink on your divorce papers is dry.