Data hacking - what are my options

[bigswifty]

I have recently been informed by the police that my car registration was used by a journalist to access private information about me. This journalist has just been charged with data protection violations. Should I wait until his case has been tried or should I approach the newspaper firm he used to work for in view of seeking compensation. The subsequent press story was unpleasant and untrue.

Any help gratefully received.

[leclerc]

Re: Data hacking - what are my options

If the journalist is found guilty then I think you will have a strong case against both the journalist and the newspaper as well.
Do you currently have a solicitor?

[bluebottle]

Re: Data hacking - what are my options

Is this connected in any way with the matter that is being currently investigated by The Leveson Enquiry? In any case, you need to liaise with the officers dealing with your case before pursuing any civil proceedings, especially as the journalist has just been charged which means the matter is now sub judice. Speak to the officers in the case next week.

[bigswifty]

Re: Data hacking - what are my options

If the journalist is found guilty then I think you will have a strong case against both the journalist and the newspaper as well.
Do you currently have a solicitor?

Hi Leclerc
Thanks for your reply. I'm currently trying to find a solicitor - preferably one who is either dealing with Operation Rubicon (Strathclyde Police Operation) or has experience of media law. So far not having much luck...
From what you are saying I understand your advice to be to wait until the journalist has gone to trial....?
Cheers

[bigswifty]

Re: Data hacking - what are my options

Is this connected in any way with the matter that is being currently investigated by The Leveson Enquiry? In any case, you need to liaise with the officers dealing with your case before pursuing any civil proceedings, especially as the journalist has just been charged which means the matter is now sub judice. Speak to the officers in the case next week.

Hi Bluebottle
Not directly with the Leveson Enquiry. It is Strathclyde Police's Operation Rubicon. The officers have advised me to get a solicitor...currently looking for one that could help!
I think your answer has answered my next question tho.....no point doing anything until the trial...once he's been found guilty then my options appear to be clearer in terms of a claim..!
Cheers

[bluebottle]

Re: Data hacking - what are my options

Once a person has been charged, the matter is sub judice (under judgement). This means that you must not do anything that could prejudice any proceedings against the journalist. Although the journalist has acted like a complete and total idiot, they are, nevertheless, entitled to a fair hearing. Have you tried the website of the Scottish equivalent of the Law Society for details of solicitors who could help you?