EP321 Do’s and Don’ts of Posting to Social Media, With Hillary Johns, Trial Lawyer
I got another chance to sit down with entertainment and trial lawyer, Hillary Johns, for an insightful discussion on a topic that touches everyone: the legalities of social media.
Hillary, with offices in California, New York, and licenses spanning multiple states including D.C. and Montana, is a true legal powerhouse. She specializes in entertainment law, covering business, employment, real estate, and intellectual property. In this episode, she and I dove deep into the common pitfalls people, especially those in the public eye, encounter on social media. She highlighted the biggest mistake: reacting emotionally online. Such reactions, she explained, can lead to severe consequences, from reputational damage and career loss to costly lawsuits. We discussed how online posts can impact contracts and negotiations, particularly concerning morals clauses, and even influence whether someone is hired or supervised in their role.
A significant portion of our conversation focused on dealing with negative comments and online trolls. Hillary stressed that anonymous online behavior is traceable, and legal actions like cease and desist letters or lawsuits for defamation are viable options. She also debunked common misconceptions about what can be legally posted, emphasizing the dangers of false accusations, particularly concerning criminal behavior or sexual assault, and the manipulation of movements like “Me Too.”
The key takeaway from my conversation with Hillary is the permanence of online content and the potential for severe legal ramifications. What you post online is forever, and a false sense of security regarding geographical distance will not protect you from legal action. It’s crucial to think before you post and to understand that even seemingly anonymous actions can be traced.
To learn more from Hillary Johns or to get in touch, you can email her at hillary@hillarytriallawyers.com. She’s a fantastic resource for advice and legal assistance.
Don’t forget about Hillary’s last recording, live from Burbank, CA.
