BREAKING: Brittany Higgins has just announced she will no longer pursue her defamation appeal in the WA Supreme Court. This decision comes just one week after her former boss, Linda Reynolds, initiated bankruptcy proceedings against her, intensifying the legal turmoil surrounding the case.
Court documents reveal that Higgins was ordered to pay Reynolds $340,000 along with 80 percent of Reynolds’ legal costs after losing a defamation lawsuit. The appeal’s withdrawal, filed earlier this week, raises significant questions about the future of both women as they navigate the aftermath of the case.
Justice Paul Tottle ruled that Higgins and her husband, David Sharaz, defamed Reynolds through a series of social media posts made in 2022 and 2023. These posts alleged that Reynolds mishandled the rape allegation brought forward by Higgins, who claims she was assaulted in the senator’s office by her colleague Bruce Lehrmann, a claim he continues to deny.
The court highlighted that much of the evidence presented focused on a conspiracy claim regarding harm suffered by Reynolds in 2021, prior to the defamatory posts. In a dramatic twist, it was revealed that Higgins attempted to settle with Reynolds just days before the trial, offering $200,000, which was rejected. Justice Tottle deemed this offer unreasonable, stating it would barely contribute to Reynolds’ legal fees.
In an additional layer of complexity, Reynolds has served Sharaz with a bankruptcy notice, amplifying the stakes for both parties. The judge also noted that a mutual statement drafted by Higgins failed to acknowledge liability or include an apology, further complicating the legal landscape.
Higgins’ withdrawal from the appeal marks a critical moment in this high-profile case, which has captivated public attention and sparked debates about accountability and justice. The implications of this ruling extend beyond the courtroom, affecting the reputations and futures of those involved.
As both women move forward, observers will be closely watching for any further developments, especially regarding potential financial repercussions for Higgins and Sharaz. The ongoing public interest in this case underscores the societal implications surrounding allegations of misconduct and the handling of such sensitive issues.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.
