When a young woman called me and said, “Social media is ruining my marriage,” I told her I wasn’t surprised. Increasingly, social media is a chief complaint and cause of divorce. Couples don’t realize social media networking can be the kiss of death.
Reconnecting with old “friends,” “former loves,” and the opportunity to meet “new” people with a swipe to the right on a cell phone is leading to the destruction of the already delicate journey of love and marriage.
Once I calmed my new client down, I further explained the good news was that social media websites and digital communications also provide a treasure trove of information (evidence) for constructive use in the divorce process.
Think about it. There’s Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, phone calls, GPS, emails, texts, dating and social media sites and lots of internet search histories.
If you suspect social media and digital communications are wrecking your marriage, don’t forget to keep your eye on the following: (this information may prove to be valuable in possibly saving your marriage [for those who wish to] and/or contributing to your mediation/divorce negotiations):
- Cell Phones: look at the phone bills – is there a phone number constantly called that is unknown to you? Phone calls can be tracked and printed out;
- Texts: lots of communication takes place by text. More and more marriages are ending because of texting. In reviewing texts, you have access to threads of conversations. Texts often reveal spontaneous feelings and correspondence. They are a valuable and insightful history of conversations; reading them can provide a lot of useful information;
- Computers and Emails: you can look at emails and internet search histories. There are also cookies on your computer which show all emails whether deleted or not; in addition, internet servers also have all erased and deleted emails;
- Social Media Sites–Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram–open conversations/pictures of spouses spending time with other people (who are not their spouse). What seems like innocent conversation, when looked at closely, can reveal the development of a relationship that is more than just “friends;”
- Dating Sites–eHarmony, Match, JDate provide profiles and some clients have found their spouses on these sites claiming to be single! It happens more than most of us would like to believe.
If you find your marriage being swallowed up by all the trappings of social media and digital communications, I can help.
With more than 35 years’ experience helping couples navigate the divorce maze, I can guide you on constructively approaching your divorce.
Even if you are angry, there are ways to get sound results without losing your mind. I will put you in the driver’s seat!
All our FREE 1-HOUR CONSULTATIONS are conducted virtually to reduce risk.
I look forward to speaking with you.
Stay healthy and safe!
Kind regards,
Lois
New York Divorce Lawyer Lois Brenner is available for a FREE consultation. Call to schedule your appointment right now! 212.734.1551.