When Social Media Evidence Determines Your Case Outcome, You Need an Expert Who Can Make Complex Platforms Simple

I'm Kate Talbot, a social media and influencer marketing expert witness who translates Instagram algorithms, TikTok virality, and platform analytics into clear, credible testimony that judges and juries understand. Trusted by law firms nationwide in IP, employment, personal injury, and federal litigation—I've even been retained by opposing counsel after trial, a testament to the objectivity and clarity of my expert analysis.

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Why Social Media Expertise Matters

 

Social media platforms are black boxes. Algorithms determine reach. Metrics can mislead. Screenshots require authentication. Deleted content disappears—or does it? Judges and juries need independent experts who can:

• Explain how platform algorithms amplify or suppress content

• Authenticate digital evidence and assess its context

• Analyze engagement metrics and audience demographics

• Evaluate FTC compliance and advertising disclosures

• Clarify influencer marketing practices and industry standards

 

I bridge the gap between complex platform mechanics and courtroom clarity

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Expertise Across Platforms & Cases ​

I've provided expert analysis in over 13 cases involving:

• Federal intellectual property disputes with major technology companies

• Employment litigation involving social media misconduct and reputation

• Cases requiring analysis of marketing reach and targeting 

• Advertising compliance matters under FTC regulations

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My declarations have been cited in court filings. My deposition testimony has withstood rigorous cross-examination. My trial testimony has helped juries understand the digital evidence that matters most.

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Notable case experience includes engagements with:

• Fish & Richardson (multiple matters)

• Knobbe Martens

• Seyfarth Shaw

• Koskoff & Bieder, P.C.

[View complete case list below]

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Platform Expertise

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Snapchat Expert Witness

I provide expert witness analysis in cases involving Snapchat evidence, including private messaging, advertising, and influencer content. I help attorneys explain how Snapchat’s features impact digital communication, discoverability, and audience reach. 

 

Want to understand how Snapchat’s disappearing messages become lasting courtroom evidence? Read my full post: Snapchat Expert Witness – How Snapchat Evidence Is Used in Court.

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YouTube Expert Witness

As a YouTube expert witness, I evaluate video content, monetization, influencer partnerships, and advertising compliance. I also assess audience engagement, algorithmic amplification, and brand impact.

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As the creator of the Lawline CLE on YouTube in IP litigation, I share insights in my blog: Leveraging YouTube in Intellectual Property Cases.

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Instagram Expert Witness

I serve as an Instagram expert witness in cases involving influencer marketing, influencer marketing branded partnerships, and advertising disclosures. I analyze content reach, engagement authenticity, and FTC compliance.

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In my blog, Instagram Influencers & FTC Compliance in Legal Disputes, I explain how attorneys can use Instagram evidence to address IP, advertising, and compliance challenges.

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TikTok Expert Witness

As a TikTok expert witness, I analyze short-form video content, influencer marketing campaigns, and how TikTok’s algorithm drives reach and virality. I also assess advertising compliance, disclosure practices, and the role of TikTok evidence in intellectual property and advertising disputes.

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Curious how TikTok’s “For You Page” ends up influencing court cases? Read my full post: TikTok Expert Witness – From the For You Page to the Courtroom.

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Facebook Expert Witness

As a Facebook expert witness, I review cases involving digital advertising, audience targeting, and community engagement. I assess how campaigns spread across groups, pages, and ads, and whether disclosures meet industry standards.

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Explore my blog, Analyzing Facebook Ads in Employment & IP Cases, for insights on how Facebook advertising, targeting, and group content become crucial legal evidence.

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X (formerly Twitter) Expert Witness

I provide expert testimony as an X (Twitter) expert witness, analyzing advertising campaigns, follower engagement, and the spread of digital content. I also assess how viral posts impact brand reputation and legal disputes.​

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In my blog, When Tweets Become Evidence in Court, I explain how attorneys can use Twitter/X content—tweets, ads, and engagement data in defamation, IP, and employment cases.

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LinkedIn Expert Witness

I serve as a LinkedIn expert witness, analyzing professional branding, advertising, and thought leadership campaigns. I assess how content is distributed, how audiences respond, and whether posts comply with disclosure and advertising rules.

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Recognized Authority & Thought Leader

I’m recognized as a social media expert in private arbitration by Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Services (JAMS) and frequently speak at global conferences and webinars on social media, influencer marketing, and the creator economy.

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My insights have been published in CNN, NBC News, BBC, NPR, and I serve as a Senior Forbes Contributor covering the social media and influencer economy. I’ve developed and taught social media marketing workshops for organizations like Sony Latin America and the Digital Marketing Institute in Dublin.

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Contact me at kate@katetalbotmarketing.com or 415-299-4208