832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 164
Social Media ExaminedPossibilities Ethical Considerations
and Privacy amp Security Concerns
Ellen Freedman CLMLaw Practice Management Coordinator
PA Bar Associationand
Jennifer Ellis EsquireLaw Practice Management Consultant
Freedman Consulting Inc
2 hrs
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 264
PBArsquos Law Practice Management
Coordinator offers services amp
assistance for your firm in
Human Resources
Technology
Bookkeeping billing reporting
Equipment buying
Strategic planning
Risk management Start-up Closing a Practice
Compensation
and much more
800-932-0311 x2228
lawpracticepabarorg
Ellen Freedman CLM
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 364
Jennifer Ellis JD
Law Practice ManagementConsultant ndash FreedmanConsulting Inc
Associate Director of MediaTechnologies and ProgramManager ndash PA Bar Institute1999 ndash 2011
JD cum laude Widener UniversitySchool of Law in Delaware
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 464
This seminar will cover
The realm of internet-based networking andcommunication tools
Social media ndash why we care
What IS social media
How do we use social media
What ethical risks exist
Social media in the practice of law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 564
The realm of internet-based
networking and communication tools
FAMILIAR TOOLS
Web sites mini-sites
Blogs
RSS Syndication ampNews Aggregators
Instant Messaging
E-Newsletters Email
UNFAMILIAR TOOLS
YouTube
Wikis
Document Repositories
Video mail
Social networking sites
Picture sharing sites
Micro-blogging (tweets)
Chat rooms
Virtual worlds
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 664
The Newest Thing Geolocation
Check-In
You say where you areWhat you are doing
Other people say you are with them
Example You are speaking at a seminar onyour area of practice Let people know by
checking in All of your Facebook contacts willknow
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 764
Social Media Why we care
Social Media How It Impacts Your Business
Social Media in Plain English
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 864
Three types of social media
SHARE
PUBLISH NETWORK
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 964
How to Use Social Media
Content is KING
Keep it real ndash concern must be genuine
Create your own community and engage yourreaders
Add content regularly
Invite discussion and interaction
Create once use many times in many media
Always keep it professional
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1064
Herersquos the whole point
Law firms lookedlike this to prospects
Successful marketing included
bullNewsletters
bullSeminars
bullWritingarticles
bullNetworking
bullWord ofmouth
referrals
bullCommunity
activitybullBar
Leadership
bullListingseg M-HYellow BookWhite pages
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1164
Now prospects also see law firms
SEO blogging
tweeting
YouTube
GroupsListservsInterest
Subscribers
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1264
They want to bethere
They willingly gothere
Because all pathsare leading them tothe same place
And todayrsquos marketing is all about
bringing traffic to your web site
Simply and only because
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1364
Create a consistent brand
See handout articles about how create yourbrand on Facebook LinkedIn YouTube andTwitter
Remember that different people will utilizedifferent media Example
Family lawyers do better on Facebook
Business lawyers do better on LinkedIn
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1464
You can do
it yourself
with a littleresearch
assistance
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1564
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1664
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1764
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1864
Itrsquos about being ldquoout thererdquo
Publish news about yourself and your firmsuch as a calendar of upcoming events inmany forums to cast the widest net
Provide links between different mediums togarner higher search engine rankings
Remember to be ldquomobile-friendlyrdquo
Remember to publish all your addresses
Follow me heretwittercommyfirmwwwourfirmcomlinkedincomellenmyfirm
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1964
Itrsquos about strategic intelligence
Monitor yourself your firm
What are they saying about you Yourfirm
Google alerts digg delicious
Trackbacks
Posts on twitter and so forthFind out where your clients and
prospects hang out
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2064
Ethical Risks
In Advertising and Other Uses
Social media can be a minefield
The risks are greater due to the numberof people who will see what is posted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2164
The Internet is Different
People sometimes believe the Internetis different
It isnrsquot The ethical rules are the same online as
offline
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2264
The Internet is not Different
If you cannot engage in a certainbehavior offline you cannot engage inthat behavior online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2364
71 False or Misleading
Communications
Donrsquot be misleading in communications eitheron or offline
Young attorney took a capital case in DC
Thrown off case for incompetence
Review of website and other advertisingshowed massive misstatements about
experience Large ethical complaint expected in his
home state of NJ
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2464
72 Attorney Advertising
Social media is a form of attorney advertising
CopiesRecords kept 2 years
No referral payments to non-lawyers No celebrity endorsements
Disclose paid endorsements
No non-lawyer non-client portrayals orreenactments
Fee language restrictions
Geographic location disclosures
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 264
PBArsquos Law Practice Management
Coordinator offers services amp
assistance for your firm in
Human Resources
Technology
Bookkeeping billing reporting
Equipment buying
Strategic planning
Risk management Start-up Closing a Practice
Compensation
and much more
800-932-0311 x2228
lawpracticepabarorg
Ellen Freedman CLM
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 364
Jennifer Ellis JD
Law Practice ManagementConsultant ndash FreedmanConsulting Inc
Associate Director of MediaTechnologies and ProgramManager ndash PA Bar Institute1999 ndash 2011
JD cum laude Widener UniversitySchool of Law in Delaware
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 464
This seminar will cover
The realm of internet-based networking andcommunication tools
Social media ndash why we care
What IS social media
How do we use social media
What ethical risks exist
Social media in the practice of law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 564
The realm of internet-based
networking and communication tools
FAMILIAR TOOLS
Web sites mini-sites
Blogs
RSS Syndication ampNews Aggregators
Instant Messaging
E-Newsletters Email
UNFAMILIAR TOOLS
YouTube
Wikis
Document Repositories
Video mail
Social networking sites
Picture sharing sites
Micro-blogging (tweets)
Chat rooms
Virtual worlds
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 664
The Newest Thing Geolocation
Check-In
You say where you areWhat you are doing
Other people say you are with them
Example You are speaking at a seminar onyour area of practice Let people know by
checking in All of your Facebook contacts willknow
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 764
Social Media Why we care
Social Media How It Impacts Your Business
Social Media in Plain English
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 864
Three types of social media
SHARE
PUBLISH NETWORK
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 964
How to Use Social Media
Content is KING
Keep it real ndash concern must be genuine
Create your own community and engage yourreaders
Add content regularly
Invite discussion and interaction
Create once use many times in many media
Always keep it professional
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1064
Herersquos the whole point
Law firms lookedlike this to prospects
Successful marketing included
bullNewsletters
bullSeminars
bullWritingarticles
bullNetworking
bullWord ofmouth
referrals
bullCommunity
activitybullBar
Leadership
bullListingseg M-HYellow BookWhite pages
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1164
Now prospects also see law firms
SEO blogging
tweeting
YouTube
GroupsListservsInterest
Subscribers
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1264
They want to bethere
They willingly gothere
Because all pathsare leading them tothe same place
And todayrsquos marketing is all about
bringing traffic to your web site
Simply and only because
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1364
Create a consistent brand
See handout articles about how create yourbrand on Facebook LinkedIn YouTube andTwitter
Remember that different people will utilizedifferent media Example
Family lawyers do better on Facebook
Business lawyers do better on LinkedIn
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1464
You can do
it yourself
with a littleresearch
assistance
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1564
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1664
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1764
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1864
Itrsquos about being ldquoout thererdquo
Publish news about yourself and your firmsuch as a calendar of upcoming events inmany forums to cast the widest net
Provide links between different mediums togarner higher search engine rankings
Remember to be ldquomobile-friendlyrdquo
Remember to publish all your addresses
Follow me heretwittercommyfirmwwwourfirmcomlinkedincomellenmyfirm
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1964
Itrsquos about strategic intelligence
Monitor yourself your firm
What are they saying about you Yourfirm
Google alerts digg delicious
Trackbacks
Posts on twitter and so forthFind out where your clients and
prospects hang out
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2064
Ethical Risks
In Advertising and Other Uses
Social media can be a minefield
The risks are greater due to the numberof people who will see what is posted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2164
The Internet is Different
People sometimes believe the Internetis different
It isnrsquot The ethical rules are the same online as
offline
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2264
The Internet is not Different
If you cannot engage in a certainbehavior offline you cannot engage inthat behavior online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2364
71 False or Misleading
Communications
Donrsquot be misleading in communications eitheron or offline
Young attorney took a capital case in DC
Thrown off case for incompetence
Review of website and other advertisingshowed massive misstatements about
experience Large ethical complaint expected in his
home state of NJ
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2464
72 Attorney Advertising
Social media is a form of attorney advertising
CopiesRecords kept 2 years
No referral payments to non-lawyers No celebrity endorsements
Disclose paid endorsements
No non-lawyer non-client portrayals orreenactments
Fee language restrictions
Geographic location disclosures
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 364
Jennifer Ellis JD
Law Practice ManagementConsultant ndash FreedmanConsulting Inc
Associate Director of MediaTechnologies and ProgramManager ndash PA Bar Institute1999 ndash 2011
JD cum laude Widener UniversitySchool of Law in Delaware
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 464
This seminar will cover
The realm of internet-based networking andcommunication tools
Social media ndash why we care
What IS social media
How do we use social media
What ethical risks exist
Social media in the practice of law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 564
The realm of internet-based
networking and communication tools
FAMILIAR TOOLS
Web sites mini-sites
Blogs
RSS Syndication ampNews Aggregators
Instant Messaging
E-Newsletters Email
UNFAMILIAR TOOLS
YouTube
Wikis
Document Repositories
Video mail
Social networking sites
Picture sharing sites
Micro-blogging (tweets)
Chat rooms
Virtual worlds
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 664
The Newest Thing Geolocation
Check-In
You say where you areWhat you are doing
Other people say you are with them
Example You are speaking at a seminar onyour area of practice Let people know by
checking in All of your Facebook contacts willknow
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 764
Social Media Why we care
Social Media How It Impacts Your Business
Social Media in Plain English
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 864
Three types of social media
SHARE
PUBLISH NETWORK
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 964
How to Use Social Media
Content is KING
Keep it real ndash concern must be genuine
Create your own community and engage yourreaders
Add content regularly
Invite discussion and interaction
Create once use many times in many media
Always keep it professional
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1064
Herersquos the whole point
Law firms lookedlike this to prospects
Successful marketing included
bullNewsletters
bullSeminars
bullWritingarticles
bullNetworking
bullWord ofmouth
referrals
bullCommunity
activitybullBar
Leadership
bullListingseg M-HYellow BookWhite pages
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1164
Now prospects also see law firms
SEO blogging
tweeting
YouTube
GroupsListservsInterest
Subscribers
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1264
They want to bethere
They willingly gothere
Because all pathsare leading them tothe same place
And todayrsquos marketing is all about
bringing traffic to your web site
Simply and only because
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1364
Create a consistent brand
See handout articles about how create yourbrand on Facebook LinkedIn YouTube andTwitter
Remember that different people will utilizedifferent media Example
Family lawyers do better on Facebook
Business lawyers do better on LinkedIn
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1464
You can do
it yourself
with a littleresearch
assistance
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1564
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1664
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1764
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1864
Itrsquos about being ldquoout thererdquo
Publish news about yourself and your firmsuch as a calendar of upcoming events inmany forums to cast the widest net
Provide links between different mediums togarner higher search engine rankings
Remember to be ldquomobile-friendlyrdquo
Remember to publish all your addresses
Follow me heretwittercommyfirmwwwourfirmcomlinkedincomellenmyfirm
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1964
Itrsquos about strategic intelligence
Monitor yourself your firm
What are they saying about you Yourfirm
Google alerts digg delicious
Trackbacks
Posts on twitter and so forthFind out where your clients and
prospects hang out
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2064
Ethical Risks
In Advertising and Other Uses
Social media can be a minefield
The risks are greater due to the numberof people who will see what is posted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2164
The Internet is Different
People sometimes believe the Internetis different
It isnrsquot The ethical rules are the same online as
offline
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2264
The Internet is not Different
If you cannot engage in a certainbehavior offline you cannot engage inthat behavior online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2364
71 False or Misleading
Communications
Donrsquot be misleading in communications eitheron or offline
Young attorney took a capital case in DC
Thrown off case for incompetence
Review of website and other advertisingshowed massive misstatements about
experience Large ethical complaint expected in his
home state of NJ
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2464
72 Attorney Advertising
Social media is a form of attorney advertising
CopiesRecords kept 2 years
No referral payments to non-lawyers No celebrity endorsements
Disclose paid endorsements
No non-lawyer non-client portrayals orreenactments
Fee language restrictions
Geographic location disclosures
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 464
This seminar will cover
The realm of internet-based networking andcommunication tools
Social media ndash why we care
What IS social media
How do we use social media
What ethical risks exist
Social media in the practice of law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 564
The realm of internet-based
networking and communication tools
FAMILIAR TOOLS
Web sites mini-sites
Blogs
RSS Syndication ampNews Aggregators
Instant Messaging
E-Newsletters Email
UNFAMILIAR TOOLS
YouTube
Wikis
Document Repositories
Video mail
Social networking sites
Picture sharing sites
Micro-blogging (tweets)
Chat rooms
Virtual worlds
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 664
The Newest Thing Geolocation
Check-In
You say where you areWhat you are doing
Other people say you are with them
Example You are speaking at a seminar onyour area of practice Let people know by
checking in All of your Facebook contacts willknow
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 764
Social Media Why we care
Social Media How It Impacts Your Business
Social Media in Plain English
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 864
Three types of social media
SHARE
PUBLISH NETWORK
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 964
How to Use Social Media
Content is KING
Keep it real ndash concern must be genuine
Create your own community and engage yourreaders
Add content regularly
Invite discussion and interaction
Create once use many times in many media
Always keep it professional
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1064
Herersquos the whole point
Law firms lookedlike this to prospects
Successful marketing included
bullNewsletters
bullSeminars
bullWritingarticles
bullNetworking
bullWord ofmouth
referrals
bullCommunity
activitybullBar
Leadership
bullListingseg M-HYellow BookWhite pages
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1164
Now prospects also see law firms
SEO blogging
tweeting
YouTube
GroupsListservsInterest
Subscribers
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1264
They want to bethere
They willingly gothere
Because all pathsare leading them tothe same place
And todayrsquos marketing is all about
bringing traffic to your web site
Simply and only because
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1364
Create a consistent brand
See handout articles about how create yourbrand on Facebook LinkedIn YouTube andTwitter
Remember that different people will utilizedifferent media Example
Family lawyers do better on Facebook
Business lawyers do better on LinkedIn
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1464
You can do
it yourself
with a littleresearch
assistance
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1564
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1664
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1764
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1864
Itrsquos about being ldquoout thererdquo
Publish news about yourself and your firmsuch as a calendar of upcoming events inmany forums to cast the widest net
Provide links between different mediums togarner higher search engine rankings
Remember to be ldquomobile-friendlyrdquo
Remember to publish all your addresses
Follow me heretwittercommyfirmwwwourfirmcomlinkedincomellenmyfirm
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1964
Itrsquos about strategic intelligence
Monitor yourself your firm
What are they saying about you Yourfirm
Google alerts digg delicious
Trackbacks
Posts on twitter and so forthFind out where your clients and
prospects hang out
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2064
Ethical Risks
In Advertising and Other Uses
Social media can be a minefield
The risks are greater due to the numberof people who will see what is posted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2164
The Internet is Different
People sometimes believe the Internetis different
It isnrsquot The ethical rules are the same online as
offline
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2264
The Internet is not Different
If you cannot engage in a certainbehavior offline you cannot engage inthat behavior online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2364
71 False or Misleading
Communications
Donrsquot be misleading in communications eitheron or offline
Young attorney took a capital case in DC
Thrown off case for incompetence
Review of website and other advertisingshowed massive misstatements about
experience Large ethical complaint expected in his
home state of NJ
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2464
72 Attorney Advertising
Social media is a form of attorney advertising
CopiesRecords kept 2 years
No referral payments to non-lawyers No celebrity endorsements
Disclose paid endorsements
No non-lawyer non-client portrayals orreenactments
Fee language restrictions
Geographic location disclosures
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 564
The realm of internet-based
networking and communication tools
FAMILIAR TOOLS
Web sites mini-sites
Blogs
RSS Syndication ampNews Aggregators
Instant Messaging
E-Newsletters Email
UNFAMILIAR TOOLS
YouTube
Wikis
Document Repositories
Video mail
Social networking sites
Picture sharing sites
Micro-blogging (tweets)
Chat rooms
Virtual worlds
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 664
The Newest Thing Geolocation
Check-In
You say where you areWhat you are doing
Other people say you are with them
Example You are speaking at a seminar onyour area of practice Let people know by
checking in All of your Facebook contacts willknow
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 764
Social Media Why we care
Social Media How It Impacts Your Business
Social Media in Plain English
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 864
Three types of social media
SHARE
PUBLISH NETWORK
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 964
How to Use Social Media
Content is KING
Keep it real ndash concern must be genuine
Create your own community and engage yourreaders
Add content regularly
Invite discussion and interaction
Create once use many times in many media
Always keep it professional
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1064
Herersquos the whole point
Law firms lookedlike this to prospects
Successful marketing included
bullNewsletters
bullSeminars
bullWritingarticles
bullNetworking
bullWord ofmouth
referrals
bullCommunity
activitybullBar
Leadership
bullListingseg M-HYellow BookWhite pages
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1164
Now prospects also see law firms
SEO blogging
tweeting
YouTube
GroupsListservsInterest
Subscribers
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1264
They want to bethere
They willingly gothere
Because all pathsare leading them tothe same place
And todayrsquos marketing is all about
bringing traffic to your web site
Simply and only because
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1364
Create a consistent brand
See handout articles about how create yourbrand on Facebook LinkedIn YouTube andTwitter
Remember that different people will utilizedifferent media Example
Family lawyers do better on Facebook
Business lawyers do better on LinkedIn
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1464
You can do
it yourself
with a littleresearch
assistance
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1564
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1664
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1764
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1864
Itrsquos about being ldquoout thererdquo
Publish news about yourself and your firmsuch as a calendar of upcoming events inmany forums to cast the widest net
Provide links between different mediums togarner higher search engine rankings
Remember to be ldquomobile-friendlyrdquo
Remember to publish all your addresses
Follow me heretwittercommyfirmwwwourfirmcomlinkedincomellenmyfirm
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1964
Itrsquos about strategic intelligence
Monitor yourself your firm
What are they saying about you Yourfirm
Google alerts digg delicious
Trackbacks
Posts on twitter and so forthFind out where your clients and
prospects hang out
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2064
Ethical Risks
In Advertising and Other Uses
Social media can be a minefield
The risks are greater due to the numberof people who will see what is posted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2164
The Internet is Different
People sometimes believe the Internetis different
It isnrsquot The ethical rules are the same online as
offline
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2264
The Internet is not Different
If you cannot engage in a certainbehavior offline you cannot engage inthat behavior online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2364
71 False or Misleading
Communications
Donrsquot be misleading in communications eitheron or offline
Young attorney took a capital case in DC
Thrown off case for incompetence
Review of website and other advertisingshowed massive misstatements about
experience Large ethical complaint expected in his
home state of NJ
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2464
72 Attorney Advertising
Social media is a form of attorney advertising
CopiesRecords kept 2 years
No referral payments to non-lawyers No celebrity endorsements
Disclose paid endorsements
No non-lawyer non-client portrayals orreenactments
Fee language restrictions
Geographic location disclosures
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 664
The Newest Thing Geolocation
Check-In
You say where you areWhat you are doing
Other people say you are with them
Example You are speaking at a seminar onyour area of practice Let people know by
checking in All of your Facebook contacts willknow
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 764
Social Media Why we care
Social Media How It Impacts Your Business
Social Media in Plain English
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 864
Three types of social media
SHARE
PUBLISH NETWORK
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 964
How to Use Social Media
Content is KING
Keep it real ndash concern must be genuine
Create your own community and engage yourreaders
Add content regularly
Invite discussion and interaction
Create once use many times in many media
Always keep it professional
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1064
Herersquos the whole point
Law firms lookedlike this to prospects
Successful marketing included
bullNewsletters
bullSeminars
bullWritingarticles
bullNetworking
bullWord ofmouth
referrals
bullCommunity
activitybullBar
Leadership
bullListingseg M-HYellow BookWhite pages
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1164
Now prospects also see law firms
SEO blogging
tweeting
YouTube
GroupsListservsInterest
Subscribers
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1264
They want to bethere
They willingly gothere
Because all pathsare leading them tothe same place
And todayrsquos marketing is all about
bringing traffic to your web site
Simply and only because
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1364
Create a consistent brand
See handout articles about how create yourbrand on Facebook LinkedIn YouTube andTwitter
Remember that different people will utilizedifferent media Example
Family lawyers do better on Facebook
Business lawyers do better on LinkedIn
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1464
You can do
it yourself
with a littleresearch
assistance
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1564
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1664
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1764
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1864
Itrsquos about being ldquoout thererdquo
Publish news about yourself and your firmsuch as a calendar of upcoming events inmany forums to cast the widest net
Provide links between different mediums togarner higher search engine rankings
Remember to be ldquomobile-friendlyrdquo
Remember to publish all your addresses
Follow me heretwittercommyfirmwwwourfirmcomlinkedincomellenmyfirm
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1964
Itrsquos about strategic intelligence
Monitor yourself your firm
What are they saying about you Yourfirm
Google alerts digg delicious
Trackbacks
Posts on twitter and so forthFind out where your clients and
prospects hang out
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2064
Ethical Risks
In Advertising and Other Uses
Social media can be a minefield
The risks are greater due to the numberof people who will see what is posted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2164
The Internet is Different
People sometimes believe the Internetis different
It isnrsquot The ethical rules are the same online as
offline
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2264
The Internet is not Different
If you cannot engage in a certainbehavior offline you cannot engage inthat behavior online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2364
71 False or Misleading
Communications
Donrsquot be misleading in communications eitheron or offline
Young attorney took a capital case in DC
Thrown off case for incompetence
Review of website and other advertisingshowed massive misstatements about
experience Large ethical complaint expected in his
home state of NJ
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2464
72 Attorney Advertising
Social media is a form of attorney advertising
CopiesRecords kept 2 years
No referral payments to non-lawyers No celebrity endorsements
Disclose paid endorsements
No non-lawyer non-client portrayals orreenactments
Fee language restrictions
Geographic location disclosures
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 764
Social Media Why we care
Social Media How It Impacts Your Business
Social Media in Plain English
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 864
Three types of social media
SHARE
PUBLISH NETWORK
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 964
How to Use Social Media
Content is KING
Keep it real ndash concern must be genuine
Create your own community and engage yourreaders
Add content regularly
Invite discussion and interaction
Create once use many times in many media
Always keep it professional
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1064
Herersquos the whole point
Law firms lookedlike this to prospects
Successful marketing included
bullNewsletters
bullSeminars
bullWritingarticles
bullNetworking
bullWord ofmouth
referrals
bullCommunity
activitybullBar
Leadership
bullListingseg M-HYellow BookWhite pages
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1164
Now prospects also see law firms
SEO blogging
tweeting
YouTube
GroupsListservsInterest
Subscribers
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1264
They want to bethere
They willingly gothere
Because all pathsare leading them tothe same place
And todayrsquos marketing is all about
bringing traffic to your web site
Simply and only because
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1364
Create a consistent brand
See handout articles about how create yourbrand on Facebook LinkedIn YouTube andTwitter
Remember that different people will utilizedifferent media Example
Family lawyers do better on Facebook
Business lawyers do better on LinkedIn
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1464
You can do
it yourself
with a littleresearch
assistance
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1564
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1664
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1764
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1864
Itrsquos about being ldquoout thererdquo
Publish news about yourself and your firmsuch as a calendar of upcoming events inmany forums to cast the widest net
Provide links between different mediums togarner higher search engine rankings
Remember to be ldquomobile-friendlyrdquo
Remember to publish all your addresses
Follow me heretwittercommyfirmwwwourfirmcomlinkedincomellenmyfirm
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1964
Itrsquos about strategic intelligence
Monitor yourself your firm
What are they saying about you Yourfirm
Google alerts digg delicious
Trackbacks
Posts on twitter and so forthFind out where your clients and
prospects hang out
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2064
Ethical Risks
In Advertising and Other Uses
Social media can be a minefield
The risks are greater due to the numberof people who will see what is posted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2164
The Internet is Different
People sometimes believe the Internetis different
It isnrsquot The ethical rules are the same online as
offline
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2264
The Internet is not Different
If you cannot engage in a certainbehavior offline you cannot engage inthat behavior online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2364
71 False or Misleading
Communications
Donrsquot be misleading in communications eitheron or offline
Young attorney took a capital case in DC
Thrown off case for incompetence
Review of website and other advertisingshowed massive misstatements about
experience Large ethical complaint expected in his
home state of NJ
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2464
72 Attorney Advertising
Social media is a form of attorney advertising
CopiesRecords kept 2 years
No referral payments to non-lawyers No celebrity endorsements
Disclose paid endorsements
No non-lawyer non-client portrayals orreenactments
Fee language restrictions
Geographic location disclosures
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 864
Three types of social media
SHARE
PUBLISH NETWORK
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 964
How to Use Social Media
Content is KING
Keep it real ndash concern must be genuine
Create your own community and engage yourreaders
Add content regularly
Invite discussion and interaction
Create once use many times in many media
Always keep it professional
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1064
Herersquos the whole point
Law firms lookedlike this to prospects
Successful marketing included
bullNewsletters
bullSeminars
bullWritingarticles
bullNetworking
bullWord ofmouth
referrals
bullCommunity
activitybullBar
Leadership
bullListingseg M-HYellow BookWhite pages
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1164
Now prospects also see law firms
SEO blogging
tweeting
YouTube
GroupsListservsInterest
Subscribers
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1264
They want to bethere
They willingly gothere
Because all pathsare leading them tothe same place
And todayrsquos marketing is all about
bringing traffic to your web site
Simply and only because
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1364
Create a consistent brand
See handout articles about how create yourbrand on Facebook LinkedIn YouTube andTwitter
Remember that different people will utilizedifferent media Example
Family lawyers do better on Facebook
Business lawyers do better on LinkedIn
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1464
You can do
it yourself
with a littleresearch
assistance
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1564
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1664
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1764
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1864
Itrsquos about being ldquoout thererdquo
Publish news about yourself and your firmsuch as a calendar of upcoming events inmany forums to cast the widest net
Provide links between different mediums togarner higher search engine rankings
Remember to be ldquomobile-friendlyrdquo
Remember to publish all your addresses
Follow me heretwittercommyfirmwwwourfirmcomlinkedincomellenmyfirm
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1964
Itrsquos about strategic intelligence
Monitor yourself your firm
What are they saying about you Yourfirm
Google alerts digg delicious
Trackbacks
Posts on twitter and so forthFind out where your clients and
prospects hang out
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2064
Ethical Risks
In Advertising and Other Uses
Social media can be a minefield
The risks are greater due to the numberof people who will see what is posted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2164
The Internet is Different
People sometimes believe the Internetis different
It isnrsquot The ethical rules are the same online as
offline
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2264
The Internet is not Different
If you cannot engage in a certainbehavior offline you cannot engage inthat behavior online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2364
71 False or Misleading
Communications
Donrsquot be misleading in communications eitheron or offline
Young attorney took a capital case in DC
Thrown off case for incompetence
Review of website and other advertisingshowed massive misstatements about
experience Large ethical complaint expected in his
home state of NJ
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2464
72 Attorney Advertising
Social media is a form of attorney advertising
CopiesRecords kept 2 years
No referral payments to non-lawyers No celebrity endorsements
Disclose paid endorsements
No non-lawyer non-client portrayals orreenactments
Fee language restrictions
Geographic location disclosures
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 964
How to Use Social Media
Content is KING
Keep it real ndash concern must be genuine
Create your own community and engage yourreaders
Add content regularly
Invite discussion and interaction
Create once use many times in many media
Always keep it professional
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1064
Herersquos the whole point
Law firms lookedlike this to prospects
Successful marketing included
bullNewsletters
bullSeminars
bullWritingarticles
bullNetworking
bullWord ofmouth
referrals
bullCommunity
activitybullBar
Leadership
bullListingseg M-HYellow BookWhite pages
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1164
Now prospects also see law firms
SEO blogging
tweeting
YouTube
GroupsListservsInterest
Subscribers
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1264
They want to bethere
They willingly gothere
Because all pathsare leading them tothe same place
And todayrsquos marketing is all about
bringing traffic to your web site
Simply and only because
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1364
Create a consistent brand
See handout articles about how create yourbrand on Facebook LinkedIn YouTube andTwitter
Remember that different people will utilizedifferent media Example
Family lawyers do better on Facebook
Business lawyers do better on LinkedIn
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1464
You can do
it yourself
with a littleresearch
assistance
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1564
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1664
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1764
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1864
Itrsquos about being ldquoout thererdquo
Publish news about yourself and your firmsuch as a calendar of upcoming events inmany forums to cast the widest net
Provide links between different mediums togarner higher search engine rankings
Remember to be ldquomobile-friendlyrdquo
Remember to publish all your addresses
Follow me heretwittercommyfirmwwwourfirmcomlinkedincomellenmyfirm
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1964
Itrsquos about strategic intelligence
Monitor yourself your firm
What are they saying about you Yourfirm
Google alerts digg delicious
Trackbacks
Posts on twitter and so forthFind out where your clients and
prospects hang out
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2064
Ethical Risks
In Advertising and Other Uses
Social media can be a minefield
The risks are greater due to the numberof people who will see what is posted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2164
The Internet is Different
People sometimes believe the Internetis different
It isnrsquot The ethical rules are the same online as
offline
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2264
The Internet is not Different
If you cannot engage in a certainbehavior offline you cannot engage inthat behavior online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2364
71 False or Misleading
Communications
Donrsquot be misleading in communications eitheron or offline
Young attorney took a capital case in DC
Thrown off case for incompetence
Review of website and other advertisingshowed massive misstatements about
experience Large ethical complaint expected in his
home state of NJ
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2464
72 Attorney Advertising
Social media is a form of attorney advertising
CopiesRecords kept 2 years
No referral payments to non-lawyers No celebrity endorsements
Disclose paid endorsements
No non-lawyer non-client portrayals orreenactments
Fee language restrictions
Geographic location disclosures
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1064
Herersquos the whole point
Law firms lookedlike this to prospects
Successful marketing included
bullNewsletters
bullSeminars
bullWritingarticles
bullNetworking
bullWord ofmouth
referrals
bullCommunity
activitybullBar
Leadership
bullListingseg M-HYellow BookWhite pages
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1164
Now prospects also see law firms
SEO blogging
tweeting
YouTube
GroupsListservsInterest
Subscribers
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1264
They want to bethere
They willingly gothere
Because all pathsare leading them tothe same place
And todayrsquos marketing is all about
bringing traffic to your web site
Simply and only because
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1364
Create a consistent brand
See handout articles about how create yourbrand on Facebook LinkedIn YouTube andTwitter
Remember that different people will utilizedifferent media Example
Family lawyers do better on Facebook
Business lawyers do better on LinkedIn
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1464
You can do
it yourself
with a littleresearch
assistance
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1564
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1664
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1764
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1864
Itrsquos about being ldquoout thererdquo
Publish news about yourself and your firmsuch as a calendar of upcoming events inmany forums to cast the widest net
Provide links between different mediums togarner higher search engine rankings
Remember to be ldquomobile-friendlyrdquo
Remember to publish all your addresses
Follow me heretwittercommyfirmwwwourfirmcomlinkedincomellenmyfirm
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1964
Itrsquos about strategic intelligence
Monitor yourself your firm
What are they saying about you Yourfirm
Google alerts digg delicious
Trackbacks
Posts on twitter and so forthFind out where your clients and
prospects hang out
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2064
Ethical Risks
In Advertising and Other Uses
Social media can be a minefield
The risks are greater due to the numberof people who will see what is posted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2164
The Internet is Different
People sometimes believe the Internetis different
It isnrsquot The ethical rules are the same online as
offline
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2264
The Internet is not Different
If you cannot engage in a certainbehavior offline you cannot engage inthat behavior online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2364
71 False or Misleading
Communications
Donrsquot be misleading in communications eitheron or offline
Young attorney took a capital case in DC
Thrown off case for incompetence
Review of website and other advertisingshowed massive misstatements about
experience Large ethical complaint expected in his
home state of NJ
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2464
72 Attorney Advertising
Social media is a form of attorney advertising
CopiesRecords kept 2 years
No referral payments to non-lawyers No celebrity endorsements
Disclose paid endorsements
No non-lawyer non-client portrayals orreenactments
Fee language restrictions
Geographic location disclosures
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1164
Now prospects also see law firms
SEO blogging
tweeting
YouTube
GroupsListservsInterest
Subscribers
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1264
They want to bethere
They willingly gothere
Because all pathsare leading them tothe same place
And todayrsquos marketing is all about
bringing traffic to your web site
Simply and only because
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1364
Create a consistent brand
See handout articles about how create yourbrand on Facebook LinkedIn YouTube andTwitter
Remember that different people will utilizedifferent media Example
Family lawyers do better on Facebook
Business lawyers do better on LinkedIn
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1464
You can do
it yourself
with a littleresearch
assistance
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1564
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1664
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1764
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1864
Itrsquos about being ldquoout thererdquo
Publish news about yourself and your firmsuch as a calendar of upcoming events inmany forums to cast the widest net
Provide links between different mediums togarner higher search engine rankings
Remember to be ldquomobile-friendlyrdquo
Remember to publish all your addresses
Follow me heretwittercommyfirmwwwourfirmcomlinkedincomellenmyfirm
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1964
Itrsquos about strategic intelligence
Monitor yourself your firm
What are they saying about you Yourfirm
Google alerts digg delicious
Trackbacks
Posts on twitter and so forthFind out where your clients and
prospects hang out
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2064
Ethical Risks
In Advertising and Other Uses
Social media can be a minefield
The risks are greater due to the numberof people who will see what is posted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2164
The Internet is Different
People sometimes believe the Internetis different
It isnrsquot The ethical rules are the same online as
offline
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2264
The Internet is not Different
If you cannot engage in a certainbehavior offline you cannot engage inthat behavior online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2364
71 False or Misleading
Communications
Donrsquot be misleading in communications eitheron or offline
Young attorney took a capital case in DC
Thrown off case for incompetence
Review of website and other advertisingshowed massive misstatements about
experience Large ethical complaint expected in his
home state of NJ
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2464
72 Attorney Advertising
Social media is a form of attorney advertising
CopiesRecords kept 2 years
No referral payments to non-lawyers No celebrity endorsements
Disclose paid endorsements
No non-lawyer non-client portrayals orreenactments
Fee language restrictions
Geographic location disclosures
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1264
They want to bethere
They willingly gothere
Because all pathsare leading them tothe same place
And todayrsquos marketing is all about
bringing traffic to your web site
Simply and only because
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1364
Create a consistent brand
See handout articles about how create yourbrand on Facebook LinkedIn YouTube andTwitter
Remember that different people will utilizedifferent media Example
Family lawyers do better on Facebook
Business lawyers do better on LinkedIn
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1464
You can do
it yourself
with a littleresearch
assistance
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1564
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1664
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1764
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1864
Itrsquos about being ldquoout thererdquo
Publish news about yourself and your firmsuch as a calendar of upcoming events inmany forums to cast the widest net
Provide links between different mediums togarner higher search engine rankings
Remember to be ldquomobile-friendlyrdquo
Remember to publish all your addresses
Follow me heretwittercommyfirmwwwourfirmcomlinkedincomellenmyfirm
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1964
Itrsquos about strategic intelligence
Monitor yourself your firm
What are they saying about you Yourfirm
Google alerts digg delicious
Trackbacks
Posts on twitter and so forthFind out where your clients and
prospects hang out
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2064
Ethical Risks
In Advertising and Other Uses
Social media can be a minefield
The risks are greater due to the numberof people who will see what is posted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2164
The Internet is Different
People sometimes believe the Internetis different
It isnrsquot The ethical rules are the same online as
offline
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2264
The Internet is not Different
If you cannot engage in a certainbehavior offline you cannot engage inthat behavior online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2364
71 False or Misleading
Communications
Donrsquot be misleading in communications eitheron or offline
Young attorney took a capital case in DC
Thrown off case for incompetence
Review of website and other advertisingshowed massive misstatements about
experience Large ethical complaint expected in his
home state of NJ
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2464
72 Attorney Advertising
Social media is a form of attorney advertising
CopiesRecords kept 2 years
No referral payments to non-lawyers No celebrity endorsements
Disclose paid endorsements
No non-lawyer non-client portrayals orreenactments
Fee language restrictions
Geographic location disclosures
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1364
Create a consistent brand
See handout articles about how create yourbrand on Facebook LinkedIn YouTube andTwitter
Remember that different people will utilizedifferent media Example
Family lawyers do better on Facebook
Business lawyers do better on LinkedIn
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1464
You can do
it yourself
with a littleresearch
assistance
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1564
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1664
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1764
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1864
Itrsquos about being ldquoout thererdquo
Publish news about yourself and your firmsuch as a calendar of upcoming events inmany forums to cast the widest net
Provide links between different mediums togarner higher search engine rankings
Remember to be ldquomobile-friendlyrdquo
Remember to publish all your addresses
Follow me heretwittercommyfirmwwwourfirmcomlinkedincomellenmyfirm
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1964
Itrsquos about strategic intelligence
Monitor yourself your firm
What are they saying about you Yourfirm
Google alerts digg delicious
Trackbacks
Posts on twitter and so forthFind out where your clients and
prospects hang out
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2064
Ethical Risks
In Advertising and Other Uses
Social media can be a minefield
The risks are greater due to the numberof people who will see what is posted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2164
The Internet is Different
People sometimes believe the Internetis different
It isnrsquot The ethical rules are the same online as
offline
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2264
The Internet is not Different
If you cannot engage in a certainbehavior offline you cannot engage inthat behavior online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2364
71 False or Misleading
Communications
Donrsquot be misleading in communications eitheron or offline
Young attorney took a capital case in DC
Thrown off case for incompetence
Review of website and other advertisingshowed massive misstatements about
experience Large ethical complaint expected in his
home state of NJ
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2464
72 Attorney Advertising
Social media is a form of attorney advertising
CopiesRecords kept 2 years
No referral payments to non-lawyers No celebrity endorsements
Disclose paid endorsements
No non-lawyer non-client portrayals orreenactments
Fee language restrictions
Geographic location disclosures
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1464
You can do
it yourself
with a littleresearch
assistance
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1564
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1664
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1764
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1864
Itrsquos about being ldquoout thererdquo
Publish news about yourself and your firmsuch as a calendar of upcoming events inmany forums to cast the widest net
Provide links between different mediums togarner higher search engine rankings
Remember to be ldquomobile-friendlyrdquo
Remember to publish all your addresses
Follow me heretwittercommyfirmwwwourfirmcomlinkedincomellenmyfirm
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1964
Itrsquos about strategic intelligence
Monitor yourself your firm
What are they saying about you Yourfirm
Google alerts digg delicious
Trackbacks
Posts on twitter and so forthFind out where your clients and
prospects hang out
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2064
Ethical Risks
In Advertising and Other Uses
Social media can be a minefield
The risks are greater due to the numberof people who will see what is posted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2164
The Internet is Different
People sometimes believe the Internetis different
It isnrsquot The ethical rules are the same online as
offline
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2264
The Internet is not Different
If you cannot engage in a certainbehavior offline you cannot engage inthat behavior online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2364
71 False or Misleading
Communications
Donrsquot be misleading in communications eitheron or offline
Young attorney took a capital case in DC
Thrown off case for incompetence
Review of website and other advertisingshowed massive misstatements about
experience Large ethical complaint expected in his
home state of NJ
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2464
72 Attorney Advertising
Social media is a form of attorney advertising
CopiesRecords kept 2 years
No referral payments to non-lawyers No celebrity endorsements
Disclose paid endorsements
No non-lawyer non-client portrayals orreenactments
Fee language restrictions
Geographic location disclosures
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1564
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1664
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1764
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1864
Itrsquos about being ldquoout thererdquo
Publish news about yourself and your firmsuch as a calendar of upcoming events inmany forums to cast the widest net
Provide links between different mediums togarner higher search engine rankings
Remember to be ldquomobile-friendlyrdquo
Remember to publish all your addresses
Follow me heretwittercommyfirmwwwourfirmcomlinkedincomellenmyfirm
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1964
Itrsquos about strategic intelligence
Monitor yourself your firm
What are they saying about you Yourfirm
Google alerts digg delicious
Trackbacks
Posts on twitter and so forthFind out where your clients and
prospects hang out
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2064
Ethical Risks
In Advertising and Other Uses
Social media can be a minefield
The risks are greater due to the numberof people who will see what is posted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2164
The Internet is Different
People sometimes believe the Internetis different
It isnrsquot The ethical rules are the same online as
offline
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2264
The Internet is not Different
If you cannot engage in a certainbehavior offline you cannot engage inthat behavior online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2364
71 False or Misleading
Communications
Donrsquot be misleading in communications eitheron or offline
Young attorney took a capital case in DC
Thrown off case for incompetence
Review of website and other advertisingshowed massive misstatements about
experience Large ethical complaint expected in his
home state of NJ
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2464
72 Attorney Advertising
Social media is a form of attorney advertising
CopiesRecords kept 2 years
No referral payments to non-lawyers No celebrity endorsements
Disclose paid endorsements
No non-lawyer non-client portrayals orreenactments
Fee language restrictions
Geographic location disclosures
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1664
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1764
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1864
Itrsquos about being ldquoout thererdquo
Publish news about yourself and your firmsuch as a calendar of upcoming events inmany forums to cast the widest net
Provide links between different mediums togarner higher search engine rankings
Remember to be ldquomobile-friendlyrdquo
Remember to publish all your addresses
Follow me heretwittercommyfirmwwwourfirmcomlinkedincomellenmyfirm
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1964
Itrsquos about strategic intelligence
Monitor yourself your firm
What are they saying about you Yourfirm
Google alerts digg delicious
Trackbacks
Posts on twitter and so forthFind out where your clients and
prospects hang out
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2064
Ethical Risks
In Advertising and Other Uses
Social media can be a minefield
The risks are greater due to the numberof people who will see what is posted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2164
The Internet is Different
People sometimes believe the Internetis different
It isnrsquot The ethical rules are the same online as
offline
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2264
The Internet is not Different
If you cannot engage in a certainbehavior offline you cannot engage inthat behavior online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2364
71 False or Misleading
Communications
Donrsquot be misleading in communications eitheron or offline
Young attorney took a capital case in DC
Thrown off case for incompetence
Review of website and other advertisingshowed massive misstatements about
experience Large ethical complaint expected in his
home state of NJ
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2464
72 Attorney Advertising
Social media is a form of attorney advertising
CopiesRecords kept 2 years
No referral payments to non-lawyers No celebrity endorsements
Disclose paid endorsements
No non-lawyer non-client portrayals orreenactments
Fee language restrictions
Geographic location disclosures
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1764
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1864
Itrsquos about being ldquoout thererdquo
Publish news about yourself and your firmsuch as a calendar of upcoming events inmany forums to cast the widest net
Provide links between different mediums togarner higher search engine rankings
Remember to be ldquomobile-friendlyrdquo
Remember to publish all your addresses
Follow me heretwittercommyfirmwwwourfirmcomlinkedincomellenmyfirm
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1964
Itrsquos about strategic intelligence
Monitor yourself your firm
What are they saying about you Yourfirm
Google alerts digg delicious
Trackbacks
Posts on twitter and so forthFind out where your clients and
prospects hang out
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2064
Ethical Risks
In Advertising and Other Uses
Social media can be a minefield
The risks are greater due to the numberof people who will see what is posted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2164
The Internet is Different
People sometimes believe the Internetis different
It isnrsquot The ethical rules are the same online as
offline
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2264
The Internet is not Different
If you cannot engage in a certainbehavior offline you cannot engage inthat behavior online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2364
71 False or Misleading
Communications
Donrsquot be misleading in communications eitheron or offline
Young attorney took a capital case in DC
Thrown off case for incompetence
Review of website and other advertisingshowed massive misstatements about
experience Large ethical complaint expected in his
home state of NJ
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2464
72 Attorney Advertising
Social media is a form of attorney advertising
CopiesRecords kept 2 years
No referral payments to non-lawyers No celebrity endorsements
Disclose paid endorsements
No non-lawyer non-client portrayals orreenactments
Fee language restrictions
Geographic location disclosures
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1864
Itrsquos about being ldquoout thererdquo
Publish news about yourself and your firmsuch as a calendar of upcoming events inmany forums to cast the widest net
Provide links between different mediums togarner higher search engine rankings
Remember to be ldquomobile-friendlyrdquo
Remember to publish all your addresses
Follow me heretwittercommyfirmwwwourfirmcomlinkedincomellenmyfirm
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1964
Itrsquos about strategic intelligence
Monitor yourself your firm
What are they saying about you Yourfirm
Google alerts digg delicious
Trackbacks
Posts on twitter and so forthFind out where your clients and
prospects hang out
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2064
Ethical Risks
In Advertising and Other Uses
Social media can be a minefield
The risks are greater due to the numberof people who will see what is posted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2164
The Internet is Different
People sometimes believe the Internetis different
It isnrsquot The ethical rules are the same online as
offline
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2264
The Internet is not Different
If you cannot engage in a certainbehavior offline you cannot engage inthat behavior online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2364
71 False or Misleading
Communications
Donrsquot be misleading in communications eitheron or offline
Young attorney took a capital case in DC
Thrown off case for incompetence
Review of website and other advertisingshowed massive misstatements about
experience Large ethical complaint expected in his
home state of NJ
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2464
72 Attorney Advertising
Social media is a form of attorney advertising
CopiesRecords kept 2 years
No referral payments to non-lawyers No celebrity endorsements
Disclose paid endorsements
No non-lawyer non-client portrayals orreenactments
Fee language restrictions
Geographic location disclosures
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 1964
Itrsquos about strategic intelligence
Monitor yourself your firm
What are they saying about you Yourfirm
Google alerts digg delicious
Trackbacks
Posts on twitter and so forthFind out where your clients and
prospects hang out
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2064
Ethical Risks
In Advertising and Other Uses
Social media can be a minefield
The risks are greater due to the numberof people who will see what is posted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2164
The Internet is Different
People sometimes believe the Internetis different
It isnrsquot The ethical rules are the same online as
offline
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2264
The Internet is not Different
If you cannot engage in a certainbehavior offline you cannot engage inthat behavior online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2364
71 False or Misleading
Communications
Donrsquot be misleading in communications eitheron or offline
Young attorney took a capital case in DC
Thrown off case for incompetence
Review of website and other advertisingshowed massive misstatements about
experience Large ethical complaint expected in his
home state of NJ
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2464
72 Attorney Advertising
Social media is a form of attorney advertising
CopiesRecords kept 2 years
No referral payments to non-lawyers No celebrity endorsements
Disclose paid endorsements
No non-lawyer non-client portrayals orreenactments
Fee language restrictions
Geographic location disclosures
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2064
Ethical Risks
In Advertising and Other Uses
Social media can be a minefield
The risks are greater due to the numberof people who will see what is posted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2164
The Internet is Different
People sometimes believe the Internetis different
It isnrsquot The ethical rules are the same online as
offline
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2264
The Internet is not Different
If you cannot engage in a certainbehavior offline you cannot engage inthat behavior online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2364
71 False or Misleading
Communications
Donrsquot be misleading in communications eitheron or offline
Young attorney took a capital case in DC
Thrown off case for incompetence
Review of website and other advertisingshowed massive misstatements about
experience Large ethical complaint expected in his
home state of NJ
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2464
72 Attorney Advertising
Social media is a form of attorney advertising
CopiesRecords kept 2 years
No referral payments to non-lawyers No celebrity endorsements
Disclose paid endorsements
No non-lawyer non-client portrayals orreenactments
Fee language restrictions
Geographic location disclosures
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2164
The Internet is Different
People sometimes believe the Internetis different
It isnrsquot The ethical rules are the same online as
offline
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2264
The Internet is not Different
If you cannot engage in a certainbehavior offline you cannot engage inthat behavior online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2364
71 False or Misleading
Communications
Donrsquot be misleading in communications eitheron or offline
Young attorney took a capital case in DC
Thrown off case for incompetence
Review of website and other advertisingshowed massive misstatements about
experience Large ethical complaint expected in his
home state of NJ
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2464
72 Attorney Advertising
Social media is a form of attorney advertising
CopiesRecords kept 2 years
No referral payments to non-lawyers No celebrity endorsements
Disclose paid endorsements
No non-lawyer non-client portrayals orreenactments
Fee language restrictions
Geographic location disclosures
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2264
The Internet is not Different
If you cannot engage in a certainbehavior offline you cannot engage inthat behavior online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2364
71 False or Misleading
Communications
Donrsquot be misleading in communications eitheron or offline
Young attorney took a capital case in DC
Thrown off case for incompetence
Review of website and other advertisingshowed massive misstatements about
experience Large ethical complaint expected in his
home state of NJ
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2464
72 Attorney Advertising
Social media is a form of attorney advertising
CopiesRecords kept 2 years
No referral payments to non-lawyers No celebrity endorsements
Disclose paid endorsements
No non-lawyer non-client portrayals orreenactments
Fee language restrictions
Geographic location disclosures
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2364
71 False or Misleading
Communications
Donrsquot be misleading in communications eitheron or offline
Young attorney took a capital case in DC
Thrown off case for incompetence
Review of website and other advertisingshowed massive misstatements about
experience Large ethical complaint expected in his
home state of NJ
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2464
72 Attorney Advertising
Social media is a form of attorney advertising
CopiesRecords kept 2 years
No referral payments to non-lawyers No celebrity endorsements
Disclose paid endorsements
No non-lawyer non-client portrayals orreenactments
Fee language restrictions
Geographic location disclosures
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2464
72 Attorney Advertising
Social media is a form of attorney advertising
CopiesRecords kept 2 years
No referral payments to non-lawyers No celebrity endorsements
Disclose paid endorsements
No non-lawyer non-client portrayals orreenactments
Fee language restrictions
Geographic location disclosures
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2564
73 Direct Contact of Prospects
CANNOT solicit in-person or via phone
Family previous clients attorneys - OK
CAN send written communications Disclaimer
Comply with 71
Label
E-mail considered written
Ban on real time electronic chat
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2664
74 Specialization
Can mention areas of practice
Focus on
Can say what you donrsquot handleLimited to
ldquoSpecialistsrdquo
Patent
Admiralty
Actual certifications
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2764
75 Firm Names amp Letterheads
Trade name may be used
No connection with government
No nickname moniker motto or tradename that implies results
Must disclose jurisdictional limitations of
attorneysMust be factual
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2864
amp Associates
Virginia Attorney
Firm name included ldquoand Associatesrdquo
There were no associatesWebsite listed
Nonexistent practice groups
Three nonexistent locations
Identified non-lawyer as lawyer
Attorney suspended
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 2964
85 Multi-State Practice
Must comply with home statesrsquo rules where
Office is located
Attorneysrsquo admitted Seeking clients
Advertising Marketing
Must follow all statesrsquo rules in which you are
marketing
The Web doesnrsquot stop at state boundaries
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3064
55 Unauthorized Practice of Law
Be careful on sites where you can answerquestions
Avvo
LinkedIn Your Blog
You could
Inadvertently form a client relationship
End up practicing in a state in which you arenot licensed
Take care in how you answer questions
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3164
Your Reputation
It comes down to protecting yourreputation
It is easy to say something foolishonline and have the statement go viral
Examples of things not to do
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3264
Ways to Look Like an
Idiot on the Web
Calling a Judge an ldquoEvil Witchrdquo
Florida
Providing specific information about acase and clients in an inappropriatefashion
Illinois
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3364
Attacking a client of your firm in a blogpost (and thus being called on thecarpet by your firm)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3464
Asking a Judge to suspend a case dueto needing to attend a funeral
Being friends with the Judge onFacebook
Facebook page showing pictures of theparty attended
Texas
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3564
Blogging about a case in which theattorney is counsel
Posting on Social Media sites aboutcases in which the attorney is counsel
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3664
Judges
ex-parte communication
publicly reprimanded a judge forviolating the Code of Judicial
Conduct after he ldquofriendedrdquo anattorney involved in a custodyhearing before the court andGoogled one of the parties involvedin the dispute (North Carolina)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3764
Friends with Defendant
Unaware friends
Publicity nightmare
Advice Judges should limit friendships online
Or at least be aware of an reveal relevantfriendships
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3864
Friending the wrong people
Not ok for judges to friend attorneys
in FloridaOk for judges to friend attorneys in
Ohio and Oklahoma
Crucial to know your statersquos rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 3964
What Should you do if you
Mess Up
Remember the Streisand Effect
Barbara Streisand sued to have an imageof her house removed from the Internet
Resulted in greater publicity and a lot ofinsults
Lesson learned Suing rarely works
Accept responsibility
Apologize (sincerely)
Lay low
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4064
Social Media in the Practice of Law
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4164
Social Media is Being Admitted
Mixed Results in Reported Decisions
People frequently lie to the court (or theirattorney) and tell the truth on social media
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4264
Access Granted
Zimmerman v Weis Markets
McMillen v Hummingbird
Largent v Reed (newest case)
Viewable picturesposts showed contradictoryinformation
Basis for access (and admission)
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4364
Access Not Granted
Piccolo v Paterson
No content available for defense to see
Fishing expedition
Arcq v Fields No publicly available information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4464
Access not Granted
Kalinowski v Kirschenheiter
Bar has Facebook Page ndash is the informationrelevant
Kalinowski has Facebook AccountMyspace ndash No relevant publicly available information
Require to preserve all data
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4564
Admission
Even if information is obtained throughdiscovery all usual evidence rules apply
You may need to educate your judge as
toWhy social media shouldshould not
be available via ediscovery
Why social media shouldshould notbe admitted
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4664
How to Handle Social Media
Begin with your own clients
Ask if they have social media
Suggest they should stop using it
Make it clear they may not deleteposts they have already written
This would be destruction ofevidence
You could be found culpable forspoliation be careful
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4764
Spoliation Case in Virginia
Plaintiffrsquos Counsel instructed plaintiff to clean
up account
Plaintiff deleted pictures and other
information 10 million dollar verdict halved
700000+ dollar sanction
Attorney required to pay 500000+ dollar
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4864
Opposing Side
Get online and look
Preserve what you find
Screen shots
PDFs
Video
Be careful who does the preservation oryou could end up being your ownwitness
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 4964
Request that counsel have the entireFacebook account downloaded
immediately(Facebook provides a tool for this)
Ask for all email addressesPeople may have more than one
account
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5064
Send a notice to preserve immediately
Be clear that you mean everything
Social media
Blogs
Any kind of postings online
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5164
Ask for immediate access
Access should mean a password becausenot everything is accessible without one
If refuse password ask for privacy settings tobe completely opened
Ask for Judge to compel access
Ask the right questions Donrsquot just ask about Facebook
Ask about all online use
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5264
Important to Note
Facebook and MySpace will not providecontent in a civil case
Limited by Stored CommunicationsAct 18 USC sect 2701 et seq
Will only provide ownershipinformation broad account
information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5364
Watch the Ethics
Friending Witnesses
Attorney proposed to have third partyFriend a witness
Friend would not lie but would notreveal association with attorney
Asked Philadelphia Bar for an opinion
Bar said No
Opinion 2009-02
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5464
Other States
Same advice ndash be honest if friendingwitnesses
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5564
Other Guidance Opinions
No friending other side
Seen as contact
Be careful friending employees
Are they parties If not parties same as witnessesacknowledge
who you are
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5664
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5764
Relevant Rules
Pa Rule 53
Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants
ldquoProcuring conducthellipresponsible for conductrdquo 84
Misconduct
ldquodeceptiverdquo
Pa Rule 41 Truthfulness in Statements to Others
ldquoomits a highly material factrdquo
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5864
What is Ok
Accessing what is not hidden through privacysettings
70 of people do not change their privacysettings leaving a substantial amount of data
available
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 5964
Accessing through someone who is already afriend
Divorcing spouses often forget to unfriend
each other Be cautious however in employment cases
It can look like a third party employee is beingforced to share information
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6064
About Jurors
Ask for strict and clear instruction on socialmediainternet use
Many jurors disregard
Examples Death penalty verdict overturned
Juror asked Defendant to friend her
Juror held in contempt
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6164
Ok to Investigate Jurors
Can look at publicly available information
Do not friend Jurors
Do not contact Jurors
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6264
Final Thoughts
Donrsquot be afraid of social media
It can be a powerful marketing tool
It can be a powerful research tool
Simply be sure to remember thatmany people will see what you post
Obey the ethical rules
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6364
Slides available at
wwwjlellisnetblog
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg
832019 Social Media Examined Ellen Freedman and Jennifer Ellis
httpslidepdfcomreaderfullsocial-media-examined-ellen-freedman-and-jennifer-ellis 6464
Thank You for Attending
Practice Mgt Advisor
jenniferFreedmanLPMcom
wwwFreedmanLPMcom
lawpracticepabarorg