Going through a divorce is a difficult personal journey. However, in California, it can quickly feel anything but private. With state laws requiring public disclosure of certain aspects of the process, sensitive details about your life can become accessible to others.  

While this may seem unavoidable, there are a few tips for protecting your privacy during a California divorce. Here is what you need to know.

Why Is Divorce So Public in California?  

California law mandates transparency in divorce proceedings. This works to ensure fairness and compliance. However, that means that court filings, financial disclosures, and judgments become part of the public record.  

These records are often accessible to anyone with the curiosity to seek them out. For many, this exposure feels like an unwelcome invasion during an already difficult time. But there are ways to minimize what becomes public.  

Alternatives to Protect Your Privacy   

When divorces are resolved through litigation, there are numerous court filings. As stated before, those documents automatically enter the public record. 

Fortunately, you may be able to skip that step. You don’t have to resolve your divorce in court. 

Some of these alternatives include:

• Mediation: This is a private process. In these cases, a neutral mediator helps you and your spouse reach an agreement.  
• Collaborative divorce: Both spouses work with their lawyers to negotiate and finalize terms without heading to court.  

These options keep many sensitive details out of the public eye. With that, you have greater control over your divorce.  

Protect Sensitive Financial Information  

California law requires complete financial transparency during a divorce. However, that doesn’t mean all financial details must be shared with the public. There are a few steps you can take, such as:  

• Working with a financial professional to organize your disclosures.  
• Ensuring identifying details, such as account numbers or Social Security numbers, are redacted from documents.  
• Requesting sensitive financial records be sealed.  

While full disclosure is required, these ways can make sure your most personal details remain private.  

Limit Any Digital Exposures  

In today’s world, digital security is important. Emails, text messages, and social media activity can be accessed and used as evidence in divorce proceedings. If you are looking for a way to safeguard these items, follow these tips:

• Change passwords on all personal accounts, including email, banking, and social media.  
• Avoid discussing the divorce online, even in private messages.  
• Be careful when sharing photos, updates, or financial details that could be misinterpreted or misused.  

Securing your digital footprint is a simple yet powerful way to protect yourself.  

Hide Information Concerning Children

Privacy becomes even more important for divorces that involve minors. Custody arrangements, parenting plans, and support agreement details need to be shielded. You can take steps to protect this sensitive information by:

• Avoid discussing custody disputes or parenting plans on social media or in public settings.  
• Requesting that the court seal any records involving minors.  
• Limiting discussions about the divorce in front of your children or anyone outside your legal team.  

When information is leaked, it can become detrimental to your child’s welfare. Protecting their privacy can help them as they work through this already difficult process. 

Planning for Future Privacy  

If you’re not yet divorced or are contemplating marriage, consider taking steps now to protect your privacy in the future. A prenuptial or postnuptial agreement can define how financial and personal matters will be handled in the event of a divorce.  

These agreements can include confidentiality clauses. With that, you can reduce the risk of disputes becoming public. While no one enters a marriage expecting to divorce, this proactive planning can give you a little peace of mind.  

Take Action and Protect Your Privacy  

Divorce is hard enough without worrying about public exposure. By following these tips, you can move forward with better peace of mind. 
If you need more tips for protecting your privacy during a California divorce, Roberts & Zatlin Law Office is here to help. Our team can assist with your divorce. To schedule a consultation and receive a free initial assessment of your case, please call (951) 381-8147 today.