The legal dispute between Blake Lively and her 'It Ends With Us' co-star and director Justin Baldoni shows no signs of concluding. The actress is reportedly continuing her legal pursuit, seeking damages even after reaching a settlement ahead of the trial.
Lively's Legal Maneuvers
According to the latest reports from the Daily Mail, Lively is asking a federal court in Manhattan to allow experts to quantify her losses resulting from Baldoni's failed USD 400 million defamation lawsuit against her. She seeks a separate hearing to determine her financial losses due to the now-dismissed defamation lawsuit.
During a hearing on Monday, Lively's attorneys argued that the actor should be permitted to present expert testimony to calculate the damages. Lively's team alleges that the actress incurred substantial damage to her public image and career prospects, entitling her to compensation under applicable statutes. In addition to attorney's fees and litigation costs, the actress is reportedly seeking enhanced damages, including treble damages and punitive damages. However, Lively declined to provide a specific figure.
Arguments from Both Sides
According to Lively's lawyer, Michael Gottlieb, Baldoni's complaint allegedly affected Lively's reputation and professional opportunities. Meanwhile, Baldoni's legal team argued that a separate proceeding would effectively reopen the legal battle that has already been resolved. Baldoni's attorney, Ellyn Garofalo, told the court there is no evidence that Lively suffered measurable harm as a result of the defamation action. She maintained that conducting a standalone damages hearing would amount to an 'alternative trial' and could significantly prolong the dispute.
Judge Liman appeared skeptical about allowing such evidence to be presented outside of a trial. He also questioned whether such complex claims could be adequately evaluated without a full jury trial.
Lively's Determination
Speaking to the media after the hearing, McCawley said Lively was determined to press on and admitted that 'The damages to Lively are very significant.' She added, 'When you look at the harm that was caused to her, that's what it's meant to compensate, along with the attorney's fees and costs, and then the statute mandates that provide for trouble.'
Lively previously sued Baldoni, alleging sexual harassment and claiming he orchestrated an alleged 'smear campaign' to damage her reputation. Baldoni denied the allegations and countersued Lively for USD 400 million in damages.
The ongoing legal saga highlights the complexities of defamation claims and the potential for prolonged litigation even after settlements. As the case progresses, both parties remain entrenched in their positions, with Lively seeking compensation for alleged harm and Baldoni maintaining that the legal battle should be concluded.
