JON'S CELL: 414-807-1044

We've Taken Tough Cases

AND WE'VE WON

Should you avoid social media while under investigation?

When you are accused of committing a crime in Wisconsin and you feel you have been wronged, it is tempting to lose your cool and talk to anyone who will listen about how life is unfair. In today’s world, many turn to social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat to vent their frustrations. According to Forbes, this can be a serious mistake as some things you post can be used against you if you end up in court. 

Today’s courts are more than happy to allow for anyone to use social media posts and content as a form of evidence. This can work for or against you, depending on what you have posted. If you post content on social media, always assume that it can be shared somewhere down the line. Even things that are shared privately can be used against you if there is reason for someone to find it. 

Many believe falsely that any information gained from social media content is illegally obtained evidence. Even messages sent to another person in a private app like WhatsApp can be used in a civil case. If you were arrested for drinking and driving and claim you were not drinking at that time, but someone posts pictures of you doing so, it can clearly point to your guilt. 

Some who are accused immediately delete their social media content to avoid problems. There are times when deleting your content can seriously work against you as it can be considering spoiling relevant evidence. It is a good idea to adjust your privacy settings if you are facing a criminal case, but not to completely delete everything you have posted. 

You should be selective about what you share during a court case and resist the urge to defend yourself with emotion. If you have been accused of committing a crime, you may benefit from meeting with a criminal defense lawyer to determine the best way to move forward. 

This is for educational purposes and should not be interpreted as legal advice. 

RSS Feed

FindLaw Network