Bob Dylan used to say "old habits die hard: the things that are really not important are sometimes the hardest to give up". Perhaps the same principle applies to spreading gossips. When intrusion to someone's privacy becomes a habit, it begins to be part of your system. Although rumor-mongering seems to be a recreation to some, it can still be damaging to one's reputation as it can spread like wild fire. Before you know it, everyone in your community has already heard about a senseless rumor about you. What legal actions can you take against a person who spreads rumors?
Article 26, Chapter 2: Human Relations
"Art. 26. Every person shall respect the dignity, personality, privacy and peace of mind of his neighbors and other persons. The following and similar acts, though they may not constitute a criminal offense, shall produce a cause of action for damages, prevention and other relief:
(1) Prying into the privacy of another's residence:
(2) Meddling with or disturbing the private life or family relations of another;
(3) Intriguing to cause another to be alienated from his friends;
(4) Vexing or humiliating another on account of his religious beliefs, lowly station in life, place of birth, physical defect, or other personal condition.
Discussion/Explanation:
1. Duty to Respect Dignity and Privacy
This article enhances human digminty and personality. Social equity is noy sought, but due regard for decency and propriety.
2. Remedies
a. An action for damages
b. An action for prevention
c. Any other relief
A civil action may be instituted even if no crime is involved and moral damages may be obtained.
3. Scope
a. Prying into the privacy of another's residence- includes by the implication respect for another's name, picture, or personality except insofar as is needed fro publication of information and pictures of legitimate news value.
b. Meddling with or disturbing the private life or family relations of another- includes alienation of the affections of the husband or the wife. Thus a girl who makes love to a married man, even if there be no carnal relations, disturbs his family life, and damages may therefore be asked of her. Intriguing against another's honor is also included.
c. Intriguing to cause another to be alienated from his friends- includes gossiping, and reliance on hearsay.
d. Vexing or humiliating- includes criticism of one's health or features without justifiable legal cause. Religious freedom does not authorize anyone to heap obloquy and disrepute upon another by reason of the latter's religion."
