Sex Crimes

How Has Social Media Affected Sexual Assault Claims?

Young woman using cell phone to send text message on social network at night. Closeup of hands with computer laptop in background

Many of us use social media on a daily basis, and many of us can even admit that we’re addicted. Our smartphones are constantly buzzing with news alerts, text messages, and reminders of what’s happening in the world. Recently, many social justice movements have actually used social media sites, such as Twitter, to gain a broader following and to spread awareness. News of sexual assault has been circulating from female politicians, celebrities, and other influencers, and the main outlet they have been using is social media.

Why Use Social Media?

There is an interesting contrast developing recently in our society between the concepts of social media communication and sexual assault. Social media is a widely used source of entertainment that almost anyone can relate to, whereas sexual assault is something many people still don’t know a lot about. Our modern society is still very uneducated on what sexual assault is, and so many perpetrators are unaware that their behavior can be considered inappropriate or illegal. When you are a victim or perpetrator of this crime, social media gives you a voice to express your story and your side of what happened. With this freedom, unfortunately, comes the possibility of false reports and people taking advantage of what they can say behind a screen. With as many sexual assault claims that have started through social media, there also is a fight back from many that claim they have been falsely accused. Everyone wants their voice to be heard, and everyone deserves to have an opportunity for justice. Social media has been a great platform for this debate on sexual assault because it’s accessible to anyone, and your stance can be disseminated quickly.

If you have been accused of sexual assault, or any other sex crime, in the state of Texas, you should know what your next steps are. Our criminal defense attorneys at the Goolsby Law Firm are here to fiercely represent you in court and get the help that you need. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Mike Goolsby

A veteran in both civil court cases and criminal defense, Mike Goolsby is a respected lawyer with more than 16 years of experience practicing law. He received his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of North Texas in 1990, followed by his J.D. from the prestigious Thomas M. Cooley Law School in 1994. After earning his law degree, Mr. Goolsby worked as an Assistant District Attorney for the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office. As a trial lawyer, he was able to gain exceptional access to the criminal court system in this major metropolitan area, giving him immeasurable, distinct experience that helped him build a solid foundation for his own private legal practice. Mr. Goolsby went on to practice civil law for Maverick Acceptance Group, a venture capital company. Here, he gained invaluable knowledge of the civil side of the law, adding to his already diverse portfolio of legal expertise. In 1999, he opened the doors of The Goolsby Law Firm and has been successfully serving the residents of North Texas ever since. As an attorney, Mr. Goolsby combines his experience in both the civil and criminal fields to offer unmatched legal representation to his clients. With a long list of satisfied clients, Mr. Goolsby continues to build his practice through fair and aggressive legal defense.