Legal Question in Civil Rights Law in Texas

Right to privacy versus Catholic Church action

My ex-husband and I were not married in the Catholic Church; however, he is now seeking an annulment within the Catholic Church. I have been served with papers, requesting my answers to questions about family and my first husband (who is a named party of this Church action). I've not had contact with my first husband for almost thirty years. Does the Catholic Church have the right to contact him and/or my family members, asking question that a personal and none of their business? If this is a violation of my right to privacy, will a letter stating such be sufficient to stop their invasion of my privacy? If such a letter is sufficient, do I have legal recourse should they disregard my letter?


Asked on 12/21/03, 10:28 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Roger Evans Mathis & Donheiser

Re: Right to privacy versus Catholic Church action

You are not compelled to comply simply in response to the letter, nor is any other recipient of a similar letter or an oral request for the information. You cannot, however, effectively assert "right to privacy" as a predicate to stop the effort to obtain the information. Questions can be asked; if not answered, you may face a situation where there is more aggressive action taken.

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Answered on 12/22/03, 12:24 pm


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