Judges and Prosecutors on Social Media - Exploring Controversial Ethical Concerns
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Abstract
In the contemporary landscape, characterised by the ubiquitous integration of technology, artificial intelligence and social media into daily life, there is a pressing need to systematically investigate their use within the legal profession. The research process involved an analysis of relevant media channels, desk research, an online survey, and semi-structured group interviews with judges, prosecutors and other representatives of the judiciary. The paper aims to identify the ethical dilemmas arising from respondents’ use of social media. It examines respondents’ perception of the boundary between the private and public spheres, as well as freedom of expression and the need to regulate the use of social media. The paper concludes with recommendations regarding the use of social media by judges, prosecutors and other representatives of the judiciary, bearing in mind their role in society and the applicable regulations and standards by which they should be guided.
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