Blake Lively Secures Legal Fee Award in Case Against Justin Baldoni

Blake Lively received a partial victory in her legal dispute involving Justin Baldoni. On Friday, a federal judge granted her legal fees, though the exact amount remains unspecified. This ruling follows her settlement with Baldoni’s production company and marked another step in a contentious legal battle.

Ms. Lively had previously settled retaliation claims related to the 2024 film “It Ends With Us.” Both parties were preparing for a high-profile trial in Federal District Court in Manhattan. Although financial compensation was not part of the settlement, she retained the right to seek payment through other legal avenues.

Ms. Lively’s attorneys leveraged a California law enacted to deter wrongful defamation suits to intimidate complainants of harassment. She alleged a retaliatory campaign was conducted against her by Mr. Baldoni after she reported sexual harassment on the movie set. Mr. Baldoni’s lawyers contested her claims under the law, arguing that her harassment allegations were exaggerated to gain control over the film’s production.

In a detailed 47-page order, Judge Liman concluded that Ms. Lively’s complaints were consistent with the law’s provision for non-malicious accusations. The judge noted the lack of evidence from Mr. Baldoni’s side to prove malice in her accusations. “Allegations alone are not sufficient to show statements were made with malice,” Judge Liman stated, emphasizing the need for evidence.

While Ms. Lively’s legal team has yet to assert the precise amount of legal fees involved, such claims can invite objections. She sought more than legal fees, including potential treble damages and punitive measures as envisaged by the California law. Nonetheless, the judge clarified that her current legal efforts allowed requests solely for fees, excluding additional damages.

The settlement agreement between Ms. Lively and Mr. Baldoni specified neither side would appeal Judge Liman’s decision. Requests for comments from their representatives were unmet at the time of reporting.

Reporter Julia Jacobs specializes in arts and culture, frequently covering legal matters for her publication.