Social media is a ubiquitous tool of communication and dissemination of information to large audiences. Most people have one or more active social media accounts. Whether on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok or elsewhere, people use social media every day to stay in touch, post updates or watch silly videos.
While there is nothing wrong with using social media, how you use it can matter a great deal if you have a pending criminal or family law case before the Texas courts.
Social media posts are fair game to your legal opponents
Whether it’s the State of Texas or your soon-to-be ex-spouse, both can plumb your social media posts and/or the posts of others that may picture you in a less-than-flattering light. Facing a DUI and ordered to attend AA meetings and remain sober? Those pictures of you at your best friend’s wedding doing shots with the bride and groom can devastate your argument of sobriety.
Also, if you are seeking to get custody of the kids but your co-parent can pull up photos that show you doing illegal drugs or passed out drunk, your chances just plummeted.
Should you erase questionable posts?
In general, doing that could result in allegations of spoliation of evidence wherein someone deliberately tries to obliterate evidence that could be used against them in a civil or criminal trial. People do shut down their social media accounts, but as with many things in life, timing is crucial and could reflect badly on your integrity.
Keep this in mind
It is always best to post nothing that you would not want to be exposed in court or to an employer. There are plenty of positive ways to engage with social media platforms, so make sure that your pictures and posts only paint rosy pictures of you and your lifestyle.