What ethical concern is heightened by lawyers’ use of social media?

The heightened ethical concern related to lawyers' use of social media primarily revolves around confidentiality and misrepresentation. Lawyers have an ethical obligation to maintain client confidentiality, as outlined in the Model Rules of Professional Conduct. Social media platforms create an environment where information can be easily shared and potentially viewed by unintended audiences, which poses a significant risk to client confidentiality.

In addition, there is the potential for misrepresentation. Lawyers must be diligent in their communications to ensure that any information shared on social media does not inadvertently mislead the public or misrepresent their clients' cases. This becomes particularly complex when considering the public nature of social media, where statements made can be misinterpreted or taken out of context, further emphasizing the need for careful and considered communication.

The other choices fail to address the critical ethical issues faced by lawyers using social media. Increased networking opportunities, while advantageous, do not inherently come with risks and can lead to ethical dilemmas if confidentiality is breached. Creative marketing strategies may be beneficial, but they must still adhere to ethical guidelines, which are not universally accepted across jurisdictions. Immediate access to client information is a positive aspect of modern technology; however, if not managed properly, it can also lead to breaches of confidentiality and ethical violations.