Social Media Can Be Used Against You In Court
Social media. It’s a time waster, a venue for venting, and a way to stay in touch with friends and family on the fly. Unfortunately for some, it is also a wealth of evidence that can be used in a court of law.
Most people have heard the suggestions: don’t talk about being out of town, don’t post pictures you wouldn’t want your mother to see, and don’t air your dirty laundry. Some choose to follow this advice while others post everything from what they had for lunch to the latest drama in an on-going divorce battle.
If you think that your habits on social media can’t hurt you in a court of law, think again. Here’s how it could happen.
Privacy
Understand the meaning of the term “privacy” when it comes to social media. Even if you mark all your social media settings to private, your posts are still considered public in a court of law. You can and will be ordered to provide login information by a judge if it is determined that your social media accounts could be used as evidence.
Employment
Let’s say that you receive your paycheck and believe it to be shorted. You sue your employer. In their defense, your employer can prove that you used company time to keep up with your social media accounts. In other words, you weren’t working. Don’t expect a judge to rule in your favor.
Divorce
Divorce court is a popular medium for social media these days. If you are going through a divorce, be very careful what you post online. Assets, your financial habits, and even a new significant other can all be fodder for your soon-to-be ex.
Workers Compensation
You claim to be so injured at work that you cannot maintain employment. Your social media posts include photos of you running with the kids, playing with the dog, or otherwise engaging in physical activity. Those posts will not bode so well for you in court.
Criminal Activity
If you have done something criminal, bragging about it or posting pictures of your haul will not do anything for your defense. Many a criminal has been caught thanks to their ill-planned social media postings.
What it breaks down to is this: If it can be used against you in a court of law, keep it off the Internet. No matter how private you think your social media settings are, there is no such thing as privacy in the legal world.
If you have been arrested for a crime and need an attorney, we are here for you. Contact our offices today for assistance. Our experienced criminal lawyers will review the facts of your case at no charge to you. Call now.