If you are trying to defend yourself from a criminal charge, it is likely that you will want to learn more about how you can be successful. Many defendants do not realize that often the best strategy in regard to defending yourself against an accusation is remaining silent.
In recent years, the rise of social media has meant that many people have made their lives public online. This can be a positive thing in many ways, bringing increased communication and shared knowledge. However, it can often backfire when a person is trying to defend themselves from a criminal charge.
How can the use of social media be used against me?
There are many ways in which information gained on social media platforms can be used against you in court. For example, if you had an argument with your partner before you were accused of domestic violence, you might have publicly ranted about this on social media. While an angry rant does not prove that you are guilty of domestic violence, the courts might use it as evidence that you were acting in an impulsive and aggressive way.
Many defendants additionally believe that private communication streams, such as private messages that they have made on social media platforms, will not qualify as evidence in a court case. However, this is simply not the case. It is possible for courts to use incriminating messages sent as evidence, and they can also use information published by a person not involved in the case, for example a photo taken of you by a friend. It is important that you are aware of this before you start to form your defense.
What should I do to try and prevent social media giving a bad impression of me?
Many defendants panic after they are accused of a crime and impulsively try to delete their social media. This is not wise to do, because it could be seen by the courts as an admission of guilt, and as an attempt to try and destroy evidence.
If you want to successfully defend yourself against a crime, it is important to understand the ways that you can use the law to your advantage.