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Invasion of Privacy – Family Dispute – Default Judgment

Amount:

$84,871

Type:

Verdict-Plaintiff

State:

Maryland

Venue:

Montgomery County

Case Type:

Invasion of Privacy –

Case Name:

Mandisa Mazibuko v. Itumeleng Tlhapane

Date:

December 21, 2012

Parties

Plaintiff(s):

Mandisa Mazibuko (Female, 45 Years)

Plaintiff Attorney(s):

Michael Schatzow;
;
Baltimore,
MD,
for
Mandisa Mazibuko

Defendant(s):

Itumeleng Tlhapane

Facts:

A woman sued her sister for invasion of privacy arising out of the sister’s attempt to use private personal information against the plaintiff in another legal matter. The defendant did not file an answer to the complaint and a default judgment was entered against her. Following a bench trial on damages, the plaintiff was awarded $84,871. Plaintiff Mandisa Mazibuko and her sister, Defendant Itumeleng Tlhapane, were involved in an underlying family dispute. According to plaintiff, defendant obtained her banking and other personal information, which she attempted to use against her in unsuccessful litigation. Plaintiff filed suit for invasion of privacy. In addition to emotional distress damages, plaintiff sought reimbursement of attorney’s fees expended to defend herself and protect her privacy. Defendant did not file a response.Plaintiff was a 45-year-old female.

Injury:

Invasion of privacy. Plaintiff sought damages for emotional distress and attorney’s fees.

Result:

$84,871 (default judgment)

Trial Information:

Judge:

Steven G. Salant