The role of Facebook in BC Courtrooms is once again in the headlines.
In Dosangh v. Leblanc and St. Paul’s Hospital, a woman is suing doctors and support staff for damages suffered during open heart surgery. The plaintiff says that preventable complications during the surgery caused a stroke that left her with permanent mental and physical disabilities.
Lawyers for the hospital filed an application with the BC Supreme Court asking for access to the plaintiff’s Facebook and Twitter accounts.
They say access should be allowed since her health, enjoyment of life, and employability are central issues in the case.
But the Court dismisses the application, believing it too broad and lacking focus. The Court calls the request a “classic fishing expedition” without the appropriate bait.
The role of Facebook and social media in Canadian courtrooms continues to grow. But it is up to the Court to determine whether or not online information is relevant for a particular case. In some instances, access to Facebook and similar sites will be granted. But an aimless search of online content will likely be considered an unnecessary breach of one’s privacy.
Read more:
- B.C. court dismisses as “fishing expedition” application for access to Facebook, Twitter, The Vancouver Sun
