Trial by Tweet? Findings on Facebook? Social Media Innovation or Degradation? The Future and Challenge of Change for Courts

Abstract

The growth and exponential influence of social media challenging modern media outlets and the scope of participants is rivalling that of nation states. In addition the power of this media spectrum is forming another style of Public Square in cyber space and the demise of the spiral of silence. In turn this appears to be democratic input that can affect public policy and perhaps affects court administration and outcomes. This paper argues that while Courts must become more media savvy and modernise their methods of information outputs, it is also incumbent upon them to consider the theoretical impact and practices at work and how to ensure the delivery and dissemination of relevant responsive information and maintain the integrity and independence of Courts and the Judiciary.