Legal Question in Employment Law in California

sent a hurtful email to the person by mistake

HI.

I wrote an email, and by accident, it went to the person who asked me to type a UPS label for her. I was referring to her lowly request when I emailed a coworker but never meant for it to reach her. It said "I will do it but I wish I could say fuck you". (she has a way of talking down to people and I was angry and meant for it to go to 2 freinds and typed her email address in by accident)

Now she is suing me! she yelled at me infront of our director and 2 associates. nonetheless, she wants $ for embarrassing her, but isn't she the one who embarrassed herself by involving others when she yelled at me in public instead of taking me aside and telling me it hurt her? Obviously, the director became involved and let me go a week earlier then my two week notice.

Should I counter sue her for embarrassing me in public? this is so absurd I can't believe it! I am young and realize I made a mistake and will never

do it again. I would hate to have to drag this out in court and the last thing I am going to do it give her $! It makes me sick to know that someone could sue me over a sentence and claim it's causing her distress.

What should I do? I don't have any A$ to hire a lawyer.

thank you for the advice.


Asked on 3/14/00, 6:11 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Alvin Lundgren Alvin R. Lundgren, L.C.

Re: sent a hurtful email to the person by mistake

Your facts did not state whether she is actually suing you or just asking for damages. You don't have to respond to her damage request. If she sues, you must respond within 30 days. Counter sue her for libel and if she threatened physical violence for assault. Both of the suits will probably be thrown out of court.

For a practical solution, apologize without admitting fault. I.e., "I did not mean for you to see the e-mail. I did not mean to insult or hurt you, and was only expressing my personal frustration with the job."

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Answered on 3/23/00, 11:08 am


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