Why You Should Avoid Social Media after a Domestic Violence Arrest

Posted on: July 3rd, 2021 by Dod Law

Technology dominates our lives, and it completely reshaped how we interact with others. Whether it’s sending messages through Facebook or photos on Snapchat, there are countless ways to communicate with friends and family. However, you communicate with others, you must be cautious. Once you post something on social media or send a text, it is nearly impossible to remove it. 

Social media may be especially damaging if you are facing domestic violence charges. Not only are these charges complex to navigate, but social media may harm your case. If you face domestic violence charges in California, contact Attorney Dod of Dod Law. He can guide you through this challenging time and fight to protect your freedom. 

Social Media’s Impact on Domestic Violence Cases 

Too many people make the incorrect mistake of assuming that only their friends can see what they post since they have private accounts. While that is true when discussing the average social media user, that does not necessarily apply to domestic violence cases. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram usually support police officers in these investigations, giving officers access to private accounts. 

You might be asking yourself: “What does this mean for me?” It means that nothing you post to social media is ever private, and you should always be cautious about posting. Once the police have access to your profiles, they may use that information against you in court. The information officers find on social accounts may be used to: 

• Present new evidence 
• Reveal incriminating information
• Find witnesses
• Show your location at the time of the crime 

Ultimately, the police or state prosecutors can use anything they find on your social accounts against you. If you are facing domestic violence charges, it is best to stay off social media. 

How Can Police or Prosecutors Use Social Media Against Me? 

State prosecutors and police officers can use several pieces of information from social media against you in courts, including photos, posts, and location check-ins.  

• Photos: You may claim that you were not around your significant other at the time of the incident, but photos on Facebook may show you two at a bar together. The police can use this information as grounds to arrest you, and state prosecutors may use the photo as evidence. 

• Posts: Other posts work the same as photographic evidence. Following domestic violence charges, it is common to feel extreme emotions. However, it would be best not to lash out at your spouse on social media. It will do nothing but harm your case. 
• Location check-ins: Some users tag their location when posting. Doing so allows the police to see exactly where you were when the alleged crime took place. When it comes to domestic violence cases, officers use check-ins to ensure the alleged abuser does not violate no-contact orders. 

To avoid further harm in your case, we recommend staying off social media after a domestic violence accusation. In addition, it is a good idea to hire a defense attorney. A domestic violence defense attorney can review your case and look for evidence that is favorable to your case. They can also help you navigate life after a domestic violence accusation by helping you obtain a protective order against the other party.   

Seek Representation for Domestic Violence Accusations in California

California courts take domestic violence charges very seriously, and they often fall in a gray area between misdemeanor and felony charges. These are wobbler charges, and the prosecution may charge the defendant with either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the facts of the case and prior criminal history. If convicted, penalties may include hefty fines or jail time. A domestic violence conviction may also lead to you losing professional licenses, the right to own a firearm, or child custody. 

If you face domestic violence charges in San Diego, hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney is crucial. Attorney Dod is a domestic violence defense attorney who will launch a thorough investigation into these charges. To learn more about our services, call (619) 814-5110 or complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation.