When someone is arrested for a crime, it might seem natural to turn to social media to share the experience with others. Many people are connected to their friends and relatives on social media, after all, so they might turn to these platforms when seeking comfort after their ordeal.
In today's digital age, however, it's important to be mindful of the information you share on social media because it can harm your criminal defense case. It might pay off later to read some of the suggestions below for what you should and shouldn't do on social media after an arrest.
Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney
The first thing you should do after being arrested for a crime is to hire a criminal defense attorney. An experienced attorney can guide you through the legal process and protect your rights. They can also advise you on what to say and what not to say on social media.
Discuss the Details of Your Case on Social Media
It's important to avoid discussing the details of your case on social media. Anything you say on social media can be used against you in court.
Even if you think your social media accounts are private, it's best to assume that anything you post can be seen by others. You don't know who of your friends or family may have provided law enforcement with access to the information you've posted, and you don't know if law enforcement will create "sock puppet" accounts to monitor you.
Set All of Your Accounts to Private
Setting all of your social media accounts to private can help you avoid harming your defense case. Even if you don't intend to use social media, this can limit who can see your previous posts and ensure that your content isn’t used against you in court.
Don't Delete Any Posts or Information
It's important to avoid deleting any posts or information from your social media accounts. Deleting posts can be seen as an attempt to hide evidence, which is another crime with which you may be charged. It's best to leave your accounts as they are and avoid posting anything that could harm your case.
Be Mindful of Your Online Activity
Even if you set your accounts to private, it's important to be mindful of your online activity. Avoid posting anything that could be seen as incriminating or damaging to your case. This includes photos, videos, and even comments or reactions to other people's posts.
Conclusion
Social media can be a double-edged sword when it comes to criminal defense cases. It's important to be mindful of your online activity and avoid posting anything that could harm your case.
If you were arrested for a crime, it's best to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney who can guide you through the legal process and protect your rights.
Contact The Law Office of Rene A. Flores PLLC today to schedule a consultation.