In a landmark trial, previously esteemed Trump attorney and former NYC Mayor Rudy Giuliani was ordered by a jury to pay a staggering $148 million. The colossal sum will go to two former Georgia election workers, Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss, after Giuliani's baseless allegations of fraud against them during the heated 2020 presidential elections.
How Did Giuliani's Actions Affect the Election Workers?
Throughout the nerve-racking four-day civil trial, the tension was palpable. Eight Washington, D.C. residents heard disturbing testimonies from Freeman and Moss, emotionally recounting how Giuliani's unfounded accusations had sparked a barrage of racist and violent threats, making their lives intolerably miserable.
Giuliani had already been found liable months prior, leaving the jury with the daunting task of determining the payment for damages. Notably, the mother-daughter team had initially requested over $47 million in compensation, a figure significantly surpassed in the final judgment.
"The consequences of spreading lies about Ms. Moss and Ms. Freeman must be felt by everyone responsible," emphatically stated Michael Gottlieb, the duo's legal representative, in his concluding remarks.
What was the Jury's Verdict?
The deliberations spanned over ten hours, culminating in a verdict that demanded Giuliani compensate the election workers with an overwhelming $148.7 million. Moss and Freeman shed tears of relief, hugging their lawyers as their payday was clarified - $17 million and $16.2 million for defamation, $20 million each for inflicted emotional distress, supplemented by a further $75 million combined in punitive damages.
However, the likelihood of Giuliani meeting such a hefty penalty remains uncertain. His attorney signaled that acquiescing to the plaintiffs' demand would sound the death knell for Giuliani's reputation, likening it to a "civil death penalty."
What Happened in the Courtroom?
While the five crunching numbers constituting the total damages were relayed, Giuliani appeared largely expressionless, jotting down the figures on his tablet. In stark contrast, Moss smiled approvingly at the verdict. The workers expressed their hope that no one should ever endure their ordeal.
Despite the verdict, Giuliani held fast to his unsubstantiated claims. Leaving the courthouse, he derided the entire proceeding, highlighting the astronomical compensation sum as a fundamental absurdity.
How Did Michael Gottlieb Make His Case?
The case centered around the claim that the election workers had their identities stolen and were forced into hiding. It was backed by claims of "defamation, intentional infliction of emotional distress, civil conspiracy, and punitive damage."
Although Giuliani's defense attempted to show sympathy towards Freeman and Moss, their objective was clear - to divert blame for the threats aimed at the pair. They questioned whether Moss's psychological disorders could be tied back to Giuliani.
The jury's verdict transmits a clear message to those who engage in defamation and misinformation campaigns. For those facing similar situations, seeking legal help is crucial in fighting false accusations and protecting one's reputation. Contact an attorney to discuss your options and defend your rights.
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