Justice Michael Lee rules against Bruce Lehrmann in his defamation lawsuit over allegations made by Brittany Higgins, bringing an end to a costly and high-profile legal battle in Australia.
In a definitive ruling, Justice Michael Lee dismissed Bruce Lehrmann’s defamation lawsuit against Network Ten and journalist Lisa Wilkinson. The court case, held in Australia, addressed Lehrmann’s claim stemming from allegations that he raped Brittany Higgins. The dismissal followed an extensive 24-day trial that evaluated detailed evidence, including over 1,000 exhibits like CCTV footage and affidavits.
The legal proceedings generated significant public and media interest, primarily due to the high costs associated, ranging between $8 million to $10 million. These expenses were influenced by the complex nature of the case, involving substantial legal representation and expert testimonies. Senior Counsel Sue Chrysanthou, one of the lawyers involved, reportedly charged $8,000 per day.
Following the trial’s conclusion, Network Ten pushed for Lehrmann to cover all legal expenses, arguing his lawsuit was “deliberately wicked and calculated.” Lehrmann’s legal team, however, highlighted his challenging financial circumstances, casting doubt on his ability to manage such a substantial financial burden.
The case has raised discussions about the financial dynamics of high-profile legal battles, specifically the strain of defamation lawsuits and the implications for both parties concerning legal costs.
