We live in a digital age, and many aspects of our lives have changed because of it. It’s no surprise, then, that separating couples would be wise to consider how their digital lives will affect the divorce.
In many ways, a divorcee can no longer cut communications with his or her ex without establishing distance online. Failure to do so could lead to more resentment, bitterness and even obsession.
CNBC reports that too much time spent on social networking can lead to marital unhappiness. This conclusion comes from a new study published in a journal called “Computer in Human Behavior.” When it comes to relationships and technology, it seems the best way to stay happy is to keep the digital life separate from the married life.
The three tips listed below should make the process of digitally uncoupling as easy as possible. At the Law Offices of Stuart R. Shafer, P.C. in Lansing, it’s our mission to offer relevant, practical legal advice to help our clients through divorce. You can count on us to aggressively protect your interest throughout your separation. To speak with a family lawyer in Lansing, call us at 517-487-6603.
1. Separate Digital Assets Just Like Physical Assets
Do exes continue to live together after a split? Do they still share their keys to a joint mailbox or P.O. box? Of course not, so there is no reason to maintain a joint email or social media account.
The first order of business should be to close down any shared online services. That includes Netflix, Amazon, Apple IDs and anything that both spouses used together. Next, it’s time to devise a new set of passwords for your email and other individual services to protect your privacy.
2. Unfriend Your Ex on Social Media Before the Separation
Even if your ex doesn’t use Facebook as a soapbox to air their divorce grievances, you’ll most likely end up regretting not taking them out of your newsfeed. The Reno Gazette-Journal explains that people may end up seeing their ex with someone new or feel jealous when they seem to get over the separation. Also, you should check the privacy settings and previous post history to make sure your ex doesn’t find something to use against you during a custody battle.
3. Don’t Neglect the Gadgets
There is no reason for anyone to keep their ex’s files on their computer. During the separation, be sure to put all of your ex’s files on a thumb drive, and clear it off personal gadgets. Securing gadgets with a new password is also important.
At the Law Offices of Stuart R. Shafer, P.C., we are committed to helping our clients make it through their split as painlessly as possible. A family attorney from our firm can help with everything from child custody and alimony to prenuptial agreements and asset division. To learn more about our services or to speak with a Lansing family lawyer, call us at 517-487-6603.
