Social Media Mistakes To Avoid When Facing Domestic Violence Charges
We live in a world where social media is integral to our lives. Billions of people across the globe use social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (also known as X), and Snapchat. Research has found that seven in ten people in America use social media. However, with all the benefits that social media offers, it is crucial to remember that social media also has the potential to cause problems. For example, social media can complicate legal matters, especially when facing serious criminal charges like domestic violence charges. Many people believe that social media posts are not admissible in court as evidence, but this is untrue. Social media posts can be used as evidence in court. Following accusations of domestic violence, you need to be careful about what you post on your social media platforms. If possible, avoid using social media while your case is pending. If avoiding social media while your domestic violence case is pending is not possible, the following are some mistakes to avoid when using social media;
Talking About Your Case
One of the biggest mistakes you can make when facing domestic violence charges is discussing your case on social media. It might be tempting to want to declare your innocence online. Avoid doing that. You may inadvertently say something that ends up being used against you. Even seemingly innocent posts can be misinterpreted and used as evidence against you. For example, a seemingly innocuous apology post directed at the alleged victim may be seen as an admission of guilt even if the post does not include an apology for the alleged violence.
Saying Negative Things About the Alleged Victim
It is understandable to feel angry towards the accuser, especially if the allegations are untrue or exaggerated. However, you should not take to social media to speak ill of the person who accused you of domestic violence. Social media might seem like the perfect place to air your grievances, but it is the worst place to say negative things about your accuser. Negative comments or status updates can be interpreted as aggressive or hostile behavior. Negative posts can be used to demonstrate animosity or motive.
In line with the above, you should avoid engaging in online disputes with the accuser or their associates. Heated exchanges may be misconstrued and used as evidence of aggressive behavior.
Posting Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs
Another significant social media mistake you should avoid when facing domestic violence charges is posting under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Alcohol and drugs can impair your judgment and decision-making abilities, resulting in you posting offensive, inappropriate, or incriminating content. Alcohol and drugs can lead to you unintentionally admitting to actions or behavior that can be used against you. Additionally, the posts you make while under the influence can be used to portray you as irresponsible or reckless.
DON’T Delete Social Media Posts
After realizing that a post may be misunderstood and used against you, you may be tempted to delete it. It is not a good idea to delete posts. Deleting social media posts can be seen as an attempt to destroy evidence. Instead of deleting posts, consult with your defense attorney about the best course of action.
Contact an NYC Domestic Violence Attorney
If you are facing domestic violence charges, you need an attorney to help protect your rights and defend you. Contact our skilled and dedicated NYC domestic violence attorney, Mark I. Cohen, today to schedule a consultation and discuss your case.
Source:
pewresearch.org/internet/2021/04/07/social-media-use-in-2021/
