Social media has brought domestic spats into the public arena like never before. Not since the original airing of COPS have we seen such consistent airing of dirty laundry for public consumption.

Domestic back-and-forths aired on Facebook, TikTok, Snapchat, or Instagram seem like entertainment—until you become the subject of a social media diatribe. We often see these social media spats coincide with legal proceedings, including the filing of a restraining order.

Social Media Has Become a Forum for Domestic Disputes

Certain case studies indicate that social media could be a lifeline to protect victims of domestic violence. More often, though, social media serves as a pressure release valve for those engaged in domestic squabbles. Speaking ill of an ex has never been so easy or devastating, as the reach of social media amplifies the effect of each harmful word typed.

Certain couples are even broadcasting their in-person fights on Instagram, attracting millions of onlookers who simply can't look away. Most social media fights are not nearly as entertaining, though, for the participants.

In many cases, social media disputes can have ramifications in the courtroom. If someone is facing a restraining order, for example, their actions on social media could help determine whether they become the subject of a final restraining order (FRO).

There Is Only One Way to Respond to Social Slander: Don't Respond

When someone requests a temporary restraining order (TRO) against you in New Jersey, you will face several restrictions. Among other mandates, a TRO will generally require you to:

• Maintain a certain physical distance from the person who requested the TRO—which in this case may be your ex
• Refrain from contacting the person who requested the restraining order, including through phone calls, text messages, and social media

The conditions of a TRO are generally active for about ten days. Your ex may understand this and may be baiting you into responding to their social media post. Their hope may be that you do respond, violate your TRO, and set yourself up for a final restraining order.

A Final Restraining Order (FRO) Will Change Your Life for the Worse

Say you choose to respond directly to your ex's social media savaging. When your FRO hearing occurs, the judge will almost certainly hold this decision against you, taking your social media response as an indication that you are a danger to your ex. They may not think twice about instating a final restraining order against you.

You may even face criminal charges for violating your TRO. If you're arrested or hit with an FRO, you may lose custody of children, be in constant peril of arrest (should you violate the terms of your FRO), and face the stigma that an FRO carries with it.

Hire an Attorney If You're Facing a Restraining Order

Whether you think you might be facing a restraining order, or you've already been put on formal notice, hire an attorney as soon as possible. Attorney Joseph D. Lento and his expert team will guide you through this process, fighting any restraining order that you face.

Call the Lento Law Firm today at 888-535-3686 to discuss your case. You may also submit the details of your case online.