Post in Haste, Repent at Leisure: The Perils of Social Media in Family Law Cases

By 14 June 2021Family Law
the perils of social media in family law cases

If you’re splitting from a partner, beware of the temptation to air your laundry on social media. If you do, you could be in breach of the Family Law Act.

Section 121 of the Act restrains persons from publishing information that may identify a party to, or witness in, a family law proceeding.

This prevents newspapers from splashing the faces of embittered ex-spouses across the front page. However, ‘publishing’ also includes social media posts. Posting about your court case or the conduct of your ex on Facebook, Twitter or other social media channels can also breach s121 — depending on the content of the post.

A breach is punishable by imprisonment for up to a year.

If you’re not sure what you can and can’t post, or you’re concerned about posts made by someone else, get in touch with our Family Lawyers in Toowoomba for advice or call us at 1300 068 736.

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