How Your Social Media Activity Could Hurt Your Criminal Defense Case

 Posted on May 04, 2023 in Criminal Defense

If you are like most Americans, you spend a considerable fraction of your life online. At least one social media platform is also statistically likely to be among the many password-protected accounts you log onto regularly. There is nothing wrong with using social media to connect with loved ones, speak out about issues you care about, and seek like-minded enthusiasts who share your passions. However, if you have recently been charged with criminal wrongdoing, it is important to take great care when interacting with social media or refrain from using social media platforms until your case is resolved.

The Dangers of Social Media for Criminal Defendants

Does the idea of having the prosecutor assigned to your case looking over your shoulder day and night make you uneasy? Essentially, when you post content or react to others’ content on publicly-accessible social media sites, you are inviting this nightmarish scenario to manifest as reality. Regardless of the privacy settings that you enable on your accounts, a prosecutor may be able to look at your activity as your case progresses. In the event that they can use anything that you post, comment, or even "like" against you, they will.

Even when you are very careful about what you say on social media, you will want to keep in mind that it is very easy to misinterpret – and even to twist and manipulate – someone’s social media activity. To better ensure that your defensive strategy remains strong, consider refraining from social media usage until your case is resolved.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Joliet, IL Criminal Defense Lawyer

Depending on the nature and the severity of the criminal charges that you are facing, the stakes of your criminal defense strategy could be incredibly high. A conviction for most offenses will lead to a criminal record, which could lead to strict sentencing terms and collateral consequences that could impact both you and your family for the rest of your life. If you are hoping to do all that you can to strengthen your defense-based position, work with a knowledgeable Will County, IL criminal defense lawyer.

Criminal Defense lawyer Jack Zaremba is a former prosecutor with significant experience in criminal defense cases. He can advocate fiercely on your behalf and help you defend yourself against criminal accusations.

Call 815-740-4025 or submit a contact form on The Law Offices of Jack L. Zaremba, P.C. website to schedule a free initial consultation.