Using Technology During Your Maryland Divorce

Understanding the Perils of Social Media, Texting, and the Internet for Your Maryland Family Law Matter

When you are going through a domestic dispute, the intimate details of your private life can and will be exposed. Nothing is private, especially with the use of Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, text messaging, and email. Do not say or post anything that you do not want the judge or your opposing party to see. Once you send or post something electronically, you may be penalized for deleting it, which is why you should consider the following before you send anything electronically.

Facebook and Twitter

• Do not use these forums to talk about your case, the opposing party, or your children. These posts can easily be printed and will be used to discredit your character and cast a negative light on your case.
• Do not post pictures of your children. It can be hurtful for the other parent to see pictures of your children enjoying themselves without the other parent.
• Do not accept friend requests from people you don't know personally.

Remember, even if you have blocked the opposing party, friends, relatives, and third parties could be monitoring your Facebook and Twitter and providing copies of everything you post to the opposing party.

Texting and Emailing

• Assume that everything you post online will be used against you, so do not put into writing anything you would not want someone else to read.
• Text messages and emails can be printed and easily used as exhibits in the courtroom. The judge will take everything you say into consideration.

Computer Use

• Once litigation commences, change all passwords.
• Make sure that your computer is not linked to your children’s iPads or iPods through the Cloud or otherwise. Any messages that show up on your children’s computers that are sent by you, can be used against you.
• The history of your computer is also subject to exposure by your opposing party. Be mindful of what websites you go to and what messages you write on your computer that you would not want a judge to see.

Rockville, Maryland divorce attorney Dana Whitten represents clients throughout Maryland. Get more answers here to your frequently asked questions about Maryland divorce. Contact the Law Offices of Dana K. Whitten for a consultation about your specific concerns.