As a parent, you want to keep your child as safe as possible online. Though many parents focus on criminals that may be stalking their children or trying to lure them into sexual situations, another fear parents have is from cyberbullying. This type of bullying has become a legal nightmare for some parents who are trying to ensure that those who have hurt their children through this form of bullying are brought to justice. Before you attempt to sue or bring other criminal legal charges against someone for this act, consider these points that every parent should know.
Collect Evidence
One of the first things you should do when you find out their your child has been a victim of cyberbullying is to collect as much evidence as possible. Screenshots of conversations, text messages, and printouts of emails are all items that can be used in a police report to prove that the bullying exists and for how long it has been happening. This will also prove any intent of physical harm if it has been mentioned in the dialogue between your child and the perpetrator. When possible, obtain dates to correspond to the conversations as well.
Note Attempts to Stop the Bullying
In some cases, your child may have attempted to simply ignore the bully or to make the bully stop either at school or through other means. Make sure you note that this has occurred. This is especially true if your child is being bullied through social media where attempts to block the person have not worked. If the person has been blocked and reported, but has made additional accounts or is using others accounts to bully your child, then the police need to know as it does show a possible willful action or intent to emotionally harm your child.
Police Reports and Lawyers
You need to make a point to remember that cyberbullying is considered a criminal offense. This means that in order to see any legal action, you will need to make a police report. This police report will lead to the legal steps that involve both parties getting a lawyer. The people who have bullied your child will likely hire a criminal defense attorney to help with their case. You will need a lawyer (such as one from Davidson Law Center Inc) as well and will need to have your child be as honest as possible about when the bullying started and everything that has been said or done.
Keep in mind, the police report could lead to an arrest and could lead to more issues before things get better. You will need to speak to a lawyer prior to taking any steps to ensure that your child is safe, you are following the legal steps to end the cyberbullying, and that you know what to expect.
Share2 July 2015
While I took a few business classes in college, I left early to start my own business. I thought I had the knowledge I needed to become a great business owner and was eager to start my business. Soon, I had a new business that was actually performing pretty well in sales. Unfortunately, I hadn't taken any law courses in college, and I soon realized I made a few mistakes when starting my business that could cause me some legal trouble. Thankfully, a great business lawyer helped me correct my mistakes before I had any legal problems, but I then decided to take those business law courses. I want to help business owners and anyone else who would like to learn more about the law by starting a blog where I will share what I have learned and will continue to learn. I hope I can help you!