Social media plays a significant role in our daily lives but can also influence child custody decisions during divorce proceedings. Courts in Arkansas, like elsewhere, consider the child’s best interests, and parents’ social media activity can impact these decisions.
1. Evidence of parenting style
Courts may examine social media posts to evaluate a parent’s lifestyle and priorities. Photos or comments indicating inappropriate behavior or neglectful parenting can negatively impact custody outcomes.
2. Documentation of behavior
Social media serves as a digital record. Posts showing aggressive behavior, substance abuse or illegal activities can serve as evidence in custody hearings. This can affect a parent’s credibility and fitness.
3. Communication with the other parent
Posts or messages displaying hostility or lack of cooperation with the other parent can harm custody chances. Courts prefer co-parenting arrangements that promote positive communication for the child’s benefit.
4. Privacy concerns
Publicly sharing details about the child or custody proceedings can raise privacy concerns. Courts may view this as a lack of discretion, impacting custody decisions.
5. Impact on the child’s well-being
Posts that involve or affect the child’s emotional well-being, such as sharing distressing family issues, can influence custody outcomes. Courts prioritize the child’s emotional and psychological health.
What to do if you lose child custody
Whether that is because of social media or something else, losing custody can be every parent’s nightmare. If you are at risk of losing custody, you may want to seek help from a legal professional who can assist you in regaining custody. They can also represent your best interests in court and fight for your parental rights.
