Court Officer Academy Student Court Officer Manual: Social Media/Networking

Learn more about the social media and networking policy at the Massachusetts Trial Court Officer Academy.

Policy

The personal use of social media can have bearing on departmental personnel in their official capacity. As such, this policy provides information of a precautionary nature as well as prohibitions on the use of social media by Massachusetts Court Officers.

When using social media/networking, Student Court Officers (sworn and civilian) should be mindful that their speech becomes part of the worldwide electronic domain.

Definitions

These definitions are evolving as social media, networking, and internet usage and capabilities evolve as well.

Social Media and Networking

Are categories of internet-based resources that integrate user-generated content and user participation. They are online platforms where users can create profiles, share information, and socialize with others professionally, personally, or informally. The interface is conducted through posts or speech via a range of technologies such as computers, cellular phones, and tablets to name a few.

Social Media

A form of electronic communication through which users share information that may include, but are not limited to: personal messages, videos, phone and video sharing sites, blogs, micro blogging sites, Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram, and Snapchat.

Networking

An exchange of information or services among individuals, groups, or institutions that may include, but are not limited to: the cultivation of productive relationships for employment or business, networking sites, podcasts, as well as comments posted on a site, message or discussion boards, LinkedIn, Plaxo, Jobster, Craigslist and My Workster.

Post

Contents an individual shares on a social media/network site or the act of publishing the contents on a site.

Speech

Expression or communication of thoughts or opinions in spoken words, in writing, by expressive conduct, symbolism, photographs, videotape, or related forms of communication.

Date published:	January 2, 2023