When you're living through the aftermath of a separation or divorce, the last thing you need is a breach of your privacy.

The entire process of figuring out fair spousal support already felt like putting your life out there for everyone to see!

Now, you (or your ex) have divulged private information about your arrangement online, and you're unsure what to do.

First things first: Do these arrangements have to stay private? If that privacy has been breached, who has the right to do something about it — and what happens next?

Two Can Keep a Secret (Or Can They?)

To determine the levels of required privacy for you and your partner, check your prenuptial, separation, or divorce papers. The terms you and your partner agreed upon may have included misconduct or defamation clauses. Any privacy-breaching statements could affect spousal support if you or your partner have demonstrably broken any agreement you made.

If you believe that your ex has acted out of line and you're interested in pursuing legal action, reach out to an attorney. Likewise, if you're worried that your actions could put your spousal support payments at risk, your attorney is the first person to go to. Don't delete any posts or talk to your ex before you do so, even to apologize!

Protecting Yourself, Your Sanity, and Your Future

If a breach hasn't occurred, now might be a good time to take practical steps to avoid any privacy concerns surrounding your spousal support arrangements.

These include:

• Changing your passwords for bank, email, and social media accounts.
• Keeping your important documents (whether they be hard copies or files on your computer) in a safe, protected place
• Forwarding your mail, if you have changed residences
• Avoiding social media or using it less in the immediate aftermath of a separation

Call North Carolina Family Law Attorneys Today

Navigating the aftermath of a divorce is stressful for all involved. If you require assistance figuring out how to protect your privacy (and your ex's), especially surrounding spousal support, give Jerkins Family Law a call at 919-719-2785 (or reach out online). Our skilled attorneys will be happy to answer any questions you may have.