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Call now - With social media now being as much of a communication tool as the telephone once was many individuals are turning to websites such as Twitter, Facebook and Google+ to air their opinions on the big stories hitting the headlines that day.
However, the attorney general, Dominic Grieve QC, has said today that he will publish guidance on Twitter to help prevent social media users from committing contempt of court when commenting on current and past legal cases.
This comes after many popular celebrities, including Peaches Geldof, have received backlash from the courts after releasing classified information over social media sites during trials. In the case of Peaches Geldof, who shared the names of two mothers who had allowed their children to be abused by rock singer Ian Watkins, she later apologised for her tweets. However, many other individuals continue to share highly sensitive and classified information throughout social media which puts both others’ lives and court cases in danger.
However, while many air their opinions throughout social media it is, in-fact, the release of private or classified information relating to current and pass court cases which is considered to be contempt of court; which individuals can be prosecuted for.
Moreover, as social media becomes a prominent part of our lives further laws will be put in place to protect past criminals identities and protect the information spoken about in court and avoid further leaks of information.
If you would like to learn more about your rights and responsibilities when using social media sites please read our blog post. Furthermore, follow us on Twitter for updates from the team.
Ashton Hudson, Online Marketing Executive
Our Solicitors in Slough can be contacted by calling 01753 486 777 or emailing info@astonbond.co.uk. Alternatively, you can visit our offices at 135 High Street, Slough, Berkshire, SL1 1DN.
