Understanding The Intersection Of Social Media & Criminal Cases
In criminal cases, social media can provide a wealth of information, including a defendant’s location at a certain time, activities on certain days, and/or interactions with others. Depending on the case, this information could be vital to better understanding the defendant and establishing alibis or motives linked to the criminal case.
The Growing Influence Of Social Media In Legal Proceedings
As the years go by, social media platforms like Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok are becoming increasingly popular. As social media platforms are active treasure troves of information, legal professionals have to address the potential benefits of using social media in a criminal case, along with unearthing the privacy and ethical challenges that come with it.
The Double-Edged Sword: Social Media’s Impact On Your Case
Social media can be beneficial to your criminal case. But it can also have negative effects—a double-edged sword. Here’s why: Even though social media evidence can be a wealth of information in legal proceedings, it can be inadmissible in certain circumstances—maybe the social media posts are tampered with or showcasing inaccurate information. These aspects must be thoroughly checked to stay compliant with the law.
Do’s For Defendants On Social Media
Reviewing & Adjusting Privacy Settings
If you’re facing criminal charges and you believe your social media accounts could be used against you, change your privacy settings to be on the highest level of privacy. Don’t accept new friend requests and keep your social media profiles as quiet as possible.
Don’ts For Defendants On Social Media
Avoiding Incriminating Posts Or Comments
Avoid using social media due to the risk of self-incrimination. Comments, posts, photos, and interactions, such as ‘likes,’ can be misinterpreted, and prosecutors can use social media activity as evidence against you in court. Even seemingly innocent posts can be taken out of context and used to harm the defence strategy, so avoiding incriminating posts or comments on your profiles is best practice.
Refraining From Discussing Your Case Online
You should never share any details about your arrest or the charges you face on social media. This includes any information about the arrest or anyone else who may be involved, such as other people linked to the criminal case who were arrested or any victims, witnesses, or police officers.
Not Deleting Or Altering Existing Content
Lastly, do not delete any past content from your social media accounts. This action could be seen as an attempt to hide potential evidence related to your case or even be viewed as an admission of guilt, leading to further investigation on the matter. Removing social media content is also a poor choice because deleted content can still be easily recovered.
Navigating Social Media Responsibly During Criminal Proceedings
Managing social media during criminal proceedings is absolutely vital to your case. It requires you to remain diligent about your interactions with others on social media so that your legal team can put forward the best case for you. If you’re facing a criminal charge and need a criminal defence lawyer in Winnipeg, Brodsky Amy & Gould is here to guide you through the entire process.
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