Case Explained:This article breaks down the legal background, charges, and implications of Case Explained: Dh40,000 Compensation for WhatsApp Threats – Legal Perspective
Criminal conviction and penalties
Dubai’s misdemeanours court, as reported by Al Khaleej, convicted the defendant of insult and threat. He was fined Dh5,000, had the device used to commit the offence confiscated, and was ordered to delete the offensive messages. The court also referred the related civil claim to the competent civil court.
Civil ruling: Moral damages awarded
In its civil judgment, the Dubai court awarded the complainant Dh40,000 in moral damages, citing the psychological and reputational harm caused by verbal abuse on social media. The defendant was also ordered to pay legal interest at 5% from the date the judgment becomes final until full settlement, in addition to court fees and expenses.
Court’s reasoning
The court emphasised that the criminal conviction’s findings were binding, and the facts established could not be re-litigated in civil proceedings. It concluded that the defendant’s actions constituted proven fault resulting in significant moral damage, affecting the victim’s reputation, dignity, and social standing.
Compensation deemed proportionate
After reviewing the circumstances and extent of harm, the court ruled that Dh40,000 was a fair and proportionate amount to compensate for the emotional distress caused by the offence.