Social media has revolutionized the way people connect with one another across the world. While it has its benefits, many fail to realize the risk their online activity presents when legal issues arise. If you are involved in a criminal investigation, it’s important to understand how status updates can affect your case. According to the criminal defense attorneys at The Law Offices of Conti & Levy, the minute you are arrested and accused of an offense, your social media use can prove damaging. They advise their Torrington, CT, clients to stop posting until the charges are resolved; below, they explain why.

How Social Media Use May Affect Your Case 

1. Privacy

Many social media users believe that setting their profiles to private is enough to maintain their confidentiality. Unfortunately, police officers and prosecutors can get around this block, and it is common for them to gather evidence from these sites to use against defendants in court. As such, your accounts will likely be closely monitored as they look for ways to show your state of mind, prove a connection with criminal entities, and imply premeditation. 

2. Credibility

Many social media platforms have a feature that allows users to check in to the places they visit. You may think nothing of tagging yourself at a venue, but criminal defense attorneys warn this makes it possible for law enforcement to track your whereabouts at the time of the offense. If there are any discrepancies between the given story and what they find, your credibility may be called into question, which can be detrimental to proving innocence.

3. Incrimination 

It’s common to share photos on social media. Unfortunately, a picture can inadvertently incriminate you when taken out of context. There is also the potential for others to tag you in images that come up during the investigation and create a negative character impression that hurts your case.  

When facing criminal charges, engaging in social media activity can be problematic for your case. Protect your freedom by putting those platforms on hold for the duration of the investigation and trial. A criminal defense attorney from The Law Offices of Conti & Levy will work diligently to protect your rights and provide the most effective representation possible. Contact them at (860) 482-4451 to schedule a consultation with a criminal defense attorney, or visit their website for more information on their background and expertise.