Seeking advise for a close friend trying to get away from an abusive spouse

[Brock Samson]

Jurisdiction

California

I am seeking legal advice regarding a friends husband, who filmed her without my consent while she was delirious from sepsis and fighting with hospital staff in a vulnerable state. He later showed the video to her co-workers, attempting to defame and isolate her. There have also been other incidents, including emotional abuse, planting a hidden camera in her bedroom, physical assault at a work Christmas party, and threats to abandon her on a rural road at night if she didn't comply with his demands. Additionally, he failed to disclose before their marriage that he is a registered sex offender. She is currently trying to obtain a restraining order against him. What legal remedies are available in California, and how can she address the invasion of privacy and defamation? Would there be any HIPPA law violations?

 

[army judge]

What legal remedies are available in California, and how can she address the invasion of privacy and defamation?

It might be wise to suggest to the alleged victim contact the appropriate law enforcement agency operating in herstate, city, county, or residential area.

Once contacted, the reigning law enforcement agency will advise her accordingly.

Another wise choice, contact the district attorney operating in her state, county, or city.

 

[adjusterjack]

She needs a lawyer and a divorce. She can get a restraining order with the divorce petition.

Anything short of that is not going to fix anything.

As for the videos and other stuff she can seek remedies as part of the divorce.

Would there be any HIPPA law violations?

"HIPPA" (the crustacean Hippa - Wikipedia) is not going to help her nor would HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accounting Act).

 

[zddoodah]

HIPAA is a law governing medical providers, so it's not relevant to what you described.

I don't see anything that supports a defamation claim.

Beyond that, she needs to retain the services of a family law attorney to help with the divorce. It's not clear if your friend is currently in the hospital. If she is, she can obviously ask the staff not to give her husband access. The national domestic violence hotline is (800) 799-7233, and it's simply to google state or local resources for abused spouses.