Social Media Presence and Ethical Considerations

A professional social media presence can create networking opportunities and connections to potential employers. This page provides ethical considerations for social media accounts and networking resources. 

Consider reviewing your social media presence to ensure you are not falsely claiming to be an attorney. 

South Carolina Code: 16-17-770 Impersonating a Lawyer; penalties

(A) It is unlawful for a person other than a lawyer, who is licensed to practice law in this State or in another state or jurisdiction in the United States and not disbarred or suspended from the practice of law in any state or jurisdiction, to represent to any person that he is a lawyer for the purpose of soliciting business, obtaining anything of value, or providing legal advice or assistance. A person who violates the provisions of this section:

(1) for a first offense, is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than one thousand dollars or imprisoned for not more than one year, or both;

(2) for a second offense, is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than two thousand five hundred dollars or imprisoned for not more than three years, or both; and

(3) for a third or subsequent offense, is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than five thousand dollars or imprisoned for not more than five years, or both.

(B) The provisions of this section do not alter the provisions of Chapter 5, Title 40, regulating the practice of law.