Social media has undoubtedly impacted the way we communicate with one another as you can now connect with loved ones around the world with the touch of a button. However, it’s also important to understand that social media, like other forms of communication, can be held against you in a court of law. As such, if you are charged with a crime in relation to your online presence, understanding how this is used as evidence and the steps you should take after your arrest is critical. If this reflects your circumstances, it’s imperative to continue reading to learn more about this process and the importance of working with a Bluebell criminal defense lawyer to explore your legal options.
Can Social Media Posts Be Used as Evidence?
It’s imperative to understand that if you post anything on social media, it can be used against you in a court of law. As such, if you do something illegal online, you can face criminal charges as a result. Most commonly, charges that stem from online behavior include harassment, stalking, DWI, drug possession, and possession of a firearm.
The police can and will use anything from your online profiles against you. This includes photos, posts, comments, likes, tagged photos, your geolocations, and direct messages to hold you accountable.
Unfortunately, many assume that if they set their profiles to private, they can avoid facing charges if they are hidden behind a private account. However, the police are able to subpoena social media companies to gain information, and they may find screenshots of your activity as well.
What Should I Do if I’m Facing Arrest in Pennsylvania?
If you have been arrested and charged with a crime in relation to your social media profile, there are steps you should take to help your case. Generally, one of the most important things you can do is immediately cease all activity online. This includes posting, commenting, or liking posts. In addition, you should inform your friends and family not to post about you or your case. Even if you are not the author, these posts can influence the outcome of your case.
You also should refrain from deleting any posts that could be potentially incriminating or negatively impact the outcome of your case. Doing so could be viewed as an attempt to tamper with or conceal evidence, which can hurt your credibility and potentially lead to additional charges.
If you have been charged with a crime in relation to your social media profiles, it is critical to connect with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. At Mudrick & Zucker, P.C., we understand how nerve-wracking these situations can be, which is why we are committed to exploring all avenues to help you in the fight for the best possible outcome. When you need help, our dedicated team is here. Connect with us today to learn how we can fight for you.
