Protecting Your Privacy in a Texas Divorce

Divorce is one of life’s most disruptive and overwhelming transitions. In addition to the emotional and financial challenges that accompany most divorces, the process often exposes personal details to unwanted scrutiny. In Texas, where divorce records are generally considered public information, protecting your privacy requires strategic planning and informed decision-making.

At Balekian Hayes, PLLC, we understand the importance of safeguarding your personal information during this vulnerable time. Contact us today for a confidential consultation to learn more about how our experienced divorce attorneys can help protect you and work toward a favorable resolution.

Navigating Privacy in Texas Divorces: Essential Insights

Texas divorce proceedings can potentially reveal intimate details about your finances, personal relationships, and family dynamics. Without proper precautions, sensitive information can become accessible to employers, business associates, family members, and even the general public. This exposure not only affects your personal life but can also harm your professional reputation and future opportunities.

Our attorneys recognize that privacy concerns vary based on individual circumstances. High-net-worth individuals may worry about financial details becoming public knowledge. Others may be concerned about protecting children from unnecessary exposure or preventing sensitive personal information from being weaponized by an ex-spouse. Regardless of the specifics of your privacy concerns, the team at Balekian Hayes, PLLC will work to shield you from unfavorable scrutiny.

Legal Strategies for Privacy Protection in Divorce

Protecting your privacy during a Texas divorce requires a multi-pronged approach. Several legal tools and strategies can help shield sensitive information from public view while still meeting the requirements of Texas family law.

Filing Motions to Seal Court Records

In Texas, court records are presumed to be open to the public. However, you can request that certain documents or entire cases be sealed under specific circumstances. To successfully seal divorce records, you must demonstrate a compelling reason that outweighs the presumption of public access.

Our experienced attorneys at Balekian Hayes, PLLC can help you determine whether your situation meets the legal threshold for sealing records. Common grounds include protecting children’s information, preventing identity theft, or safeguarding business trade secrets and financial data. We have the skills to prepare and argue motions to seal, and we will present your case convincingly to the court.

Exploring Confidentiality Agreements and Protective Orders

Confidentiality agreements between divorcing spouses can establish clear boundaries regarding what information may be shared and with whom. These agreements are particularly valuable when dealing with sensitive business information, financial details, or personal matters that could be harmful if disclosed.

Protective orders offer another layer of privacy protection, restricting how specific information can be used during litigation. Our team at Balekian Hayes, PLLC excels at drafting comprehensive protective orders that safeguard your most sensitive information while complying with Texas discovery requirements.

Alternative Dispute Resolution: Keeping Matters Private

Traditional courtroom litigation makes privacy difficult to maintain, as hearings are typically open to the public, and documents become part of the accessible court record. Alternative dispute resolution methods offer more discreet approaches to resolving divorce issues.

Mediation, collaborative divorce, and private judging allow you to negotiate settlement terms outside the public courtroom. These methods not only enhance privacy but often result in more efficient, cost-effective resolutions. 

With over two decades of experience in complex divorce cases, our attorneys are skilled negotiators who can represent your interests effectively in any alternative dispute resolution setting. Kris Balekian Hayes, our founder and managing partner, is an accredited mediator in civil, family, and Child Protective Services matters. She knows what it takes to provide clients with experienced guidance through these private resolution options.

Protecting Your Online and Personal Information

With much of our lives online, protecting your privacy extends beyond the courtroom. Your internet and social media presence can significantly influence your divorce proceedings and personal privacy.

Managing Social Media During Divorce

Social media activity often becomes evidence in divorce cases, potentially revealing information about finances, behavior, parenting, and relationships. We advise clients to:

• Temporarily deactivate or significantly restrict social media accounts during divorce proceedings
• Refrain from posting negative comments about your spouse or details about the divorce
• Review and update privacy settings on all platforms
• Be vigilant about checking what friends and family members post about you
• Avoid accepting new friend requests from unknown individuals

Remember that in Texas, social media posts can be subpoenaed and used as evidence, regardless of privacy settings or whether posts were later deleted.

Safeguarding Digital Communications and Devices

Text messages, emails, and other digital communications are frequently used as evidence in divorce cases. To protect your privacy:

• Change passwords for all accounts, including email, banking, and social media
• Create a new, private email account for divorce-related communications
• Enable two-factor authentication where available
• Be mindful of shared family devices, cloud accounts, and location tracking
• Consult with our tech-savvy attorneys about securing your digital footprint

Securing Important Documents and Personal Information

Physical documents require protection as well. Our team recommends:

• Securing financial statements, tax returns, estate planning documents, and other sensitive paperwork
• Monitoring credit reports for unauthorized activity
• Changing passwords and PINs for financial accounts
• Updating estate planning documents, including wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations
• Establishing new accounts separate from joint accounts when appropriate

Contact Balekian Hayes, PLLC Today

Addressing privacy concerns during a Texas divorce requires experienced legal counsel who understands both the emotional and practical implications of information disclosure. At Balekian Hayes, PLLC, we are committed to protecting your privacy while achieving a favorable outcome in your divorce. Our team of experienced family law attorneys provides personalized attention and innovative legal strategies for clients seeking privacy protection during divorce. With intentionally limited caseloads, we are dedicated to giving each client the dedicated support and comprehensive representation they deserve.

Whether you’re concerned about financial privacy in a high-asset divorce or protecting sensitive personal information in a high-conflict situation, our high-net-worth divorce attorneys have the skills to guide you through the process with dignity and discretion. Contact Balekian Hayes, PLLC, today for a confidential consultation and learn how we can help you protect your privacy during your Texas divorce.