LS Legal News Bulletin
A Cautionary Tale: Privacy in Family Law Cases
Monday 4th December 2023
Stella Marat
⚖️ In a recent family court case, an individual faced severe consequences for secretly recording and posting adoption proceedings on YouTube.
🚨 Despite clear signs in the court prohibiting such actions, the individual's intentional disregard for the rules caught the court's attention. The recording garnered over 1,600 views, leading Honourable Mr Justice Cobb to highlight the crucial role of privacy laws in family proceedings.
Although the person admitted to making the recording, the judge considered some mitigating factors. The family case had already concluded with a final decision in 2022, and no significant harm was caused.
While three videos were initially on YouTube, one was removed before any punishment, and the remaining two were relocated to a private online space.
💸 The judge imposed a four-month sentence for the recording, an additional four months for sharing, and a £5,000 fine.
❗ Stella Marat, our Family Law expert, emphasises the importance of integrity and privacy in family law cases, especially those involving children.
📢 Stella shares, "This case serves as a clear reminder of the serious consequences of violating confidentiality laws. We strongly advise clients to uphold privacy standards, as there are severe repercussions for those who defy legal protections in family court proceedings."
