Share:

Social media makes it easy to share virtually every aspect of life with family and friends. While this typically isn’t problematic for most people, anyone facing criminal charges should refrain from posting on these platforms. According to the criminal defense attorneys at the Bates Law Firm PLLC, online profiles can cause various issues in a legal case. They recommend their Anson, Richmond, Stanly, and Union County, NC, clients halt all use until the allegations against them are resolved.

How Social Media Can Adversely Impact Your Case

1. Your Posts Aren’t Private 

Many people mistakenly believe that setting their social media profiles to private is sufficient. Unfortunately, law enforcement and prosecutors can navigate around privacy settings, and anything they find can be used against you in court. It’s vital to know your accounts will be closely monitored. Posts are often used in criminal cases to show a defendant’s state of mind, imply premeditation, and prove affiliation with criminal entities. 

2. Photos Can Be Incriminating 

criminal defense attorneySharing photos is one of the most common uses of social media. However, criminal defense attorneys warn that photos can be just as detrimental to your case as anything you say. Without realizing it, you may be posting pictures that turn out to be incriminating by unwittingly connecting you with the crime. There is also the potential for friends and family to tag you in photos that can be used as evidence.

3. Location Services May Bring Up Discrepancies 

Several social media platforms allow users to check-in to the different locations they visit. Using this feature offers the police and prosecution an opportunity to gather information regarding your whereabouts at the time of the alleged criminal act. If they discover you were in the vicinity of where the crime was committed or find a discrepancy in the statement you provided, your defense can suffer considerably.

If you are currently being investigated for a criminal offense, it’s wise to cease all social media activity right away. It’s also crucial that you don’t wait to seek counsel from an established criminal defense attorney. The legal team at Bates Law Firm PLLC will protect your rights and offer the quality counsel and representation you need to ensure the best possible outcome. Call (704) 694-0195 to schedule a consultation, or visit their website for more information about their expertise as criminal defense attorneys.

tracking