It’s vitally important that you take steps to protect your interests if you’ve recently been accused of criminal wrongdoing. If you are like most adults, you spend a relatively significant time scrolling and posting content on social media. This is understandable, as social media helps people to make and maintain social, familial and professional connections. However, at this time, you need to maintain those connections in another way.
When you were arrested, you were likely read your Miranda rights and told that anything you said could be used against you in court. Unfortunately, anything that you say and do on social media can similarly be used against you in court.
Why is social media so hazardous right now?
When you email someone from a private address, it isn’t easy for someone else to learn what you’ve said unless you or the recipient of your communication tells that third party. The same can be said for texts. However, social media platforms are public. That means that investigators and prosecutors can – and probably will – scroll your accounts for evidence to use against you until your case is resolved.
Anything that you post, whether words or images, could be misinterpreted, taken out of context or even manipulated in an effort to secure a conviction and/or stronger consequences for your alleged misconduct.
By better understanding how your actions – even those that are seemingly unrelated to your legal situation – can potentially impact the outcome of your case, you’ll be empowered to make informed decisions that serve your best interests. Do not hesitate to seek legal guidance if you have questions about how your everyday behavior could ultimately strengthen or compromise your defense.
