Breach of confidentiality?

My partner was recently dismissed following disciplinary actions. I bumped into one of her old colleagues who had a lot to say about the matter and discussing information that was sensitive to the disiplinary saying she l had seen text messages from her work phone and branding her a thief which she is not. This information should not have been available to her. Is there any action we could take agains the company for breaching confidentiality and disciplinary procedures?

She might want to ask a lawyer if her disciplinary hearing findings/file was released or became common knowledge, somehow. She would have to show "damages" to file a lawsuit. But that could even include loss of reputation or slander. Her colleague might have been giving her OPINION about the issue. Very often, the first visit to lawyer is free. (USA) Be sure to get a contract or employment rights lawyer.