Labor Issues
Q. A screenshot of my Slack DM badmouthing a colleague was spread company-wide and I was disciplined. DMs aren't "public," right?
A.
Criminal defamation is unlikely for DMs, but disciplinary action for rule violations may be valid. Excessive punishment can be challenged.
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DMs lack "publicity" required for criminal defamation (Art. 230), so criminal liability is unlikely. However: workplace conduct rule violations can justify discipline; civil tort claims for hurt feelings don't require publicity (Art. 709); and company Slack DMs may be accessible to the employer per terms/policies. Whether discipline is proportionate depends on severity of comments, impact, and balance—disproportionate punishment can be challenged.
This article provides general legal information and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal issues, please consult with a qualified attorney.
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