Legal Question in Civil Rights Law in Massachusetts
Valid privacy suit
My husband's buddy, an electronics geek, has set up a camera and microphone in my home and car. Trouble is I cannot find it. I know I am being overheard because this friend often comments on conversations I made expressly sure that he wasn't privy to. I'm afraid he may have posted the audio clips and or photos online. I want to sue. Do I have a legal basis? What should I do? How should I present my case to an Atty if I do have a valid case?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Valid privacy suit
Sounds like breach of the privacy statute, and potentially illegal wiretapping. But its nothing at all unless and until you find a hidden bug. Maybe you could take it to an auto mechanic and ask one to look in places where it could be hidden. If so, you can call the police and ask if it is wiretapping and, if so, can they pursue it.
There's not much gold at the end of the rainbow here if you sue, unless you discover he has exploited images or sounds to others, on the net, sought to profit, etc. Pursue the criminal angle first to fact gather, then, if its egregious, look at it civilly again.
Re: Valid privacy suit
If this is happening in Massachusetts contact the police. It is illegal to audiotape a person without their permission.
Question did your husband approve of the taping either video or audio?
In any instance contact an attorney and have him arrange with a person to sweep your house for the equipment.