Taking advantage of social media during divorce

Social media can help or hurt either party in a divorce in Wisconsin, especially if they air private matters that are best left out of the public eye. However, experts are finding that different social media sites can actually help people who are ending their marriages.

First, social media can help someone going through a divorce find quick access to a number of resources, ranging from an overview of ending a marriage, child custody issues and finding lawyers. People can also find information on talking to kids about divorce, handling health insurance and what properties count as marital assets in their jurisdiction. They can check out the reputation of those they plan to hire to navigate through the divorce, such as lawyers, counselors or financial planners. Family mediators also help clients save money when negotiating a variety of issues with their soon-to-be ex-spouse, which in turn leads to less overall stress.

Second, when a parent doesn’t see their children on a daily basis, they can contact them via social media. They can communicate regularly apart from scheduled visitation. This applies even more to someone who works in another state or nation, whether military personnel or at a corporate job. Parents can set up a family site specifically to communicate with their child or just “friend” them on social media. They can look at pictures, keep up with their child’s friends and keep tabs on daily thoughts and activities. Parents can even set up visitation via some social media sites and talk about their activities.

During the break-up of a marriage, people might wonder where to find reliable information on proceeding with a divorce. A family attorney might be able to help clients work out issues, such as alimony and child custody.

Source: Huffington Post, “Can Social Media Be Your Friend During a Divorce?“, August 20, 2013