Share:

When it comes to social media accounts, it is not a good idea to broadcast every detail of your private life or your private opinions, especially if you are involved in any kind of legal proceeding. In addition to putting your privacy at risk, social media can backfire when you are involved in any lawsuit, or seeking employment.. Here’s how lawyers, law enforcement professionals, and the courts can make use of your digital footprint.

3 Types of Legal Social Media Evidence 

1. Monitoring Public Accounts

Law enforcement and attorneys now routinely track social media pages when handling a case, either civil or criminal. If you post public information about some type of wrongdoing, or even your personal relationships or finances, this can be used against you in court. Say, for instance, you make threatening Tweets or posts on Facebook toward an ex-spouse. They can be used in a divorce action, and if serious enough, even criminally. Like to brag about your lifestyle and then file for bankruptcy when you run up to many debts? Bankruptcy Trustees routinely check social media and may then question you about why you are filing.   

2. Subpoenaing Private Messages

Think you’re safe so long as you keep any criminal or other behavior restricted to your private sphere online? With a Warrant, and sometimes even a subpoena, social media accounts can be accessed.

3. Checking Photographs Online

lawyerKeep in mind that when it comes to photos, it’s not just your social media that can be checked. Other people’s Instagram stories or Snapchats can be evidence, too. Say, for instance, you are charged with DWI—but are claiming you were not drunk that night and are a victim of police mistreatment, i.e. Breathalyzer tampering. If your friends posted a picture of you at a party drinking on the night you were arrested, your claim can be impeached. 

 

Thomas A. Corletta, Attorney at Law has been helping clients defeat difficult charges for over 38 years. As a solo practitioner, he will always provide you with the personalized and experienced attention your case deserves—not pass it off to someone less experienced. With a one-on-one approach and open client communication, he will work with you to find the best approach to get the best possible result. Find out more about this criminal & civil trial practice online. For an appointment, call (585) 546-5072.

tracking