Divorce can feed a person’s worst instincts, especially when it turns into a contentious battle. Many people may not have a second thought about venting those negative feelings in a public forum.
But can a snarky comment targeting your spouse hurt your chances for a favorable divorce outcome? The answer is that it can potentially harm your reputation, family relationships and your opportunity for a positive result.
Strive for the moral high ground
The reality of today’s world is that any comment you utter aloud or post online can come back to haunt you. There are three distinct advantages for avoiding rude or contentious comments:
- Child custody: Courts put the best interests of the child first and foremost in any custody arrangement. Speaking ill of the other parent can cause a judge to view you in an unfavorable light and give your spouse added ammunition to receive a more favorable custody decision.
- Asset division: Contentious and bitter behavior make spouses less willing to work together on splitting up marital assets. Trying to ruin your soon-to-be-ex’s reputation at work or with others can not only discourage them from working with you, but negatively impact their earning potential.
- Reducing stress: An amicable process is a huge advantage for both parties in determining a fair financial agreement as well as spending more time with their kids. It also reduces anxiety for other members of the family and sets a positive tone for co-parenting plans down the road.
Don’t let an unguarded moment harm your future
Even the most reasonable and patient person can have a momentary meltdown – that’s human nature. However, having one of those moments in public or on social media can jeopardize your chances for a favorable divorce.
If you feel untethered and on the verge of becoming unhinged, an experienced family law attorney here in Virginia can compassionately guide you through the process. Your lawyer will work to help you maintain control over your divorce and not leave the big decisions up to a judge.
