Social Media Becomes Intricately Tied to Divorce

How can social media impact a divorce?

Since its inception, social media has come to influence several major facets of our lives, from the ways in which we communicate and how we gather information, to even our interpersonal relationships. Of the 86 percent of Americans currently using the internet, 79 percent report logging into popular social media site Facebook, according to the Pew Research Center. About 30 percent of internet users report regular use of other social media sites such as Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Researchers and divorce attorneys across the country are reporting a new trend—social media has now becoming a prime factor in many divorces. Our Midland, Texas divorce lawyers explore the potential relationship between social media and divorce below.

Social Media and Affairs

Along with the rise in the popularity of social media sites has come a new phenomenon known as digital infidelity. According to a study conducted by the University of Indiana, many social media users who are married or in relationships use the internet to keep in touch with exes or platonic friends that they could connect with in a romantic manner. The ease of instant access to these negative influences on a marriage make it all the more tempting for affairs to start.
Physical infidelity has always existed, but with social media spouses may also engage in so-called digital cheating. These online affairs are more emotional in nature, but can prove equally destructive to a marriage. The digital trail left by the digitally cheating spouse can give the other spouse the evidence they need to launch a divorce.

Social Media During a Divorce

Not only is social media at times the cause of divorce, or a contributing factor, it can also come to play a large role during the divorce. Social media has become a major source of evidence during a divorce. Divorcing spouses may seek to introduce evidence of an affair or other marital misconduct through social media messages, posts, or images. Social media may support the award of alimony in some cases, or even weigh-in on child custody matters. Many courts will admit social media evidence into a trial on central aspects of the divorce. Divorcing spouses should be aware of the potential havoc that social media can cause during a divorce and avoid using social media during this critical time.

About the Author

Rick Navarrete, a graduate of Angelo State University and Texas Tech University School of Law, has been serving the Permian Basin for over 24 years, with his practice extending across Texas. Specializing in criminal defense and family law, Rick has tried hundreds of cases before juries and judges, including high-profile matters. His extensive experience has honed a deep understanding of the law, enabling him to effectively prosecute, defend, and protect his clients’ interests. Rick has built a firm culture that prioritizes exceptional client service and personalized attention. Known for his zealous courtroom advocacy, he is equally dedicated to educating his clients throughout the litigation process. This commitment has earned him a reputation as one of the area’s most sought-after trial attorneys. Rick is an active member of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, the Texas Family Law Section, and the Administration of Rules of Evidence Committee for the State Bar of Texas. He has also served as President of the Midland County Young Lawyers Association and on the Bar Leadership Committee of the State Bar of Texas. Among his many accolades, Rick has been recognized as a Texas Super Lawyer and included in the Best Lawyers in America.