The award amount for Blake Lively’s legal fees remains undetermined. It pertains solely to her legal battle with Justin Baldoni, connected to their film project.
On Friday, a judge granted Lively partial success in her legal pursuit post-settlement with Baldoni’s production company. The ruling awarded her attorneys’ fees but denied her request for further financial penalties.
Last month, Lively settled her retaliation claims related to the 2024 movie “It Ends With Us.” Although she received no financial sum through the settlement, it permitted her to seek compensation through another legal route.
Lively utilized a California law designed to prevent undue defamation lawsuits aimed at silencing harassment complaints. She argued Baldoni organized an online retaliation campaign after she reported sexual harassment during the movie production.
Baldoni’s attorneys countered, asserting Lively exaggerated harmless interactions to claim harassment and influence the film’s production.
Judge Liman’s 47-page order concluded Lively’s allegations met the law’s criteria, requiring complaints be made “without malice.” He emphasized that Baldoni’s team provided no evidence of malicious intent in Lively’s accusations.
Allegations alone are insufficient to prove malice; evidence is required,the judge stated.
Lively’s legal team has yet to specify the attorneys’ fees amount they seek for defending against the now-dismissed defamation suit. These calculations can often be disputed by the opposing party.
Lively sought treble damages (tripling the figure) and punitive damages under the California law. However, the judge indicated her legal path only allowed for attorney fees, excluding damages.
Both parties agreed not to appeal Judge Liman’s decision as per their settlement.
Neither Lively nor Baldoni’s representatives provided immediate comments.
Julia Jacobs, who covers arts and culture, frequently reports on legal matters for The Times.