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Most people in the public eye try to maintain personal privacy whenever possible. When facing a divorce, they typically try to resolve matters through mediation or collaborative processes to protect their confidentiality. Unfortunately, when attempts to privately negotiate a divorce fail, the most sensitive details of your life may become public.
Be proactive about protecting your image during a public divorce. The skilled lawyers at The Riley Divorce & Family Law Firm could assemble a team to protect your professional reputation while working toward your goals in the divorce process.
When you are the face of your business—or your business is performing, commentating, or acting in the public eye—safeguarding your reputation is a critical form of asset protection. In a contentious divorce, your spouse could exploit your vulnerability to bad publicity. A skilled divorce lawyer could take immediate steps to minimize that risk.
Business tools such as non-disclosure agreements and non-disparagement clauses can be effective in protecting your reputation during a public divorce. When necessary, a divorce lawyer could offer financial or other concessions in exchange for privacy.
In certain cases, and upon request, a court may agree to seal divorce records to prevent public scrutiny. Courts can also use initials rather than full names in decisions. These are extraordinary measures, granted only when there is a compelling reason, such as the need to protect the safety or privacy of young children.
Even if the court seals the proceedings, news of the divorce may appear in the media. In some instances, it may be wise to take the initiative and issue a press release disclosing the divorce on your terms.
A divorce lawyer experienced in representing high-profile clients could have a network of communications professionals to call upon when necessary. A public relations or crisis communication specialist could tailor a strategy for responding to media inquiries. They could collaborate with your business’s communications department, agent, or publicist to ensure consistent messaging that safeguards your public image during the divorce.
While you can control your own public response to the divorce, you may have little influence over your spouse’s actions. Spouses may intentionally or inadvertently release information that reaches the public, even when legal confidentiality agreements are in place.
Media training can help you develop an effective message and learn how to convey it with assurance. In most cases, the best strategy is to acknowledge the divorce without making any personal observations about your spouse or the status of negotiations.
Your social media presence will likely be subject to scrutiny on both your public and private pages. It is best to stay off social media entirely until the divorce is final. If that is not possible, consider turning over management of your social media accounts to a communications professional for the duration of the divorce proceedings to mitigate risk.
Even an amicable divorce can tarnish a public figure’s reputation. When negotiations fail, protecting your image during a public divorce must be a priority if you are well-known.
Our experienced and discreet divorce lawyers could help you navigate a public divorce with confidence. We are always available to discuss your concerns. Reach out to us today.
Paul Riley Law Office
