Defense Perspective on the Legal Outcome
Following a recent judicial decision regarding legal fees in the case between Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively, Baldoni’s legal representative, Bryan Freedman, has offered a firm rebuttal. The core of the legal dispute centered on serious allegations, including sexual harassment and retaliatory actions, which Baldoni’s team has consistently denied.
In a formal statement, Freedman asserted: «We fought and won against a coordinated effort built on allegations of sexual harassment, retaliation and a smear campaign that never happened. Ms. Lively demanded over $300 million in fees and damages, had 10 of her 13 claims dismissed, she then chose to settle and received nothing.»
Freedman further emphasized that the court had previously rejected Lively's defamation and harassment claims. He noted that while Lively attempted to utilize specific California legislation designed to protect victims of abuse, these efforts were ultimately unsuccessful in securing the sought-after damages.
The Court's Ruling and Counterarguments
According to judicial records, Judge Lewis J. Liman determined that Lively is entitled to recover certain defense costs under a 2023 California statute aimed at protecting those who face retaliatory lawsuits. However, Freedman characterized this as a minor victory, stating: «Ms. Lively was only awarded limited attorney fees for a single claim as part of a case that lasted only a matter of months, nothing more.»
In contrast, Lively’s legal counsel, Esra Hudson and Michael Gottlieb, provided a different interpretation of the judge's decision. They stated: «Today’s ruling makes it clear that Ms. Lively brought her claims in good faith, that there was no evidence she acted with malice and that she is the prevailing defendant under Section 47.1. Ms. Lively is gratified that her lawsuit shows how Section 47.1 and laws like it create a path for survivors to hold accountable those who weaponize online attacks and retaliatory lawsuits to intimidate and silence survivors.»
Background of the Dispute
The legal friction between the It Ends With Us co-stars became public in December 2024, when Lively alleged that Baldoni had contributed to a hostile work environment and orchestrated a smear campaign against her. Baldoni, 42, vehemently disputed these accusations and initiated a countersuit, which was dismissed by a judge in June 2025.
Despite the intense legal proceedings, both parties issued a joint statement earlier this year, expressing a collective desire to move forward. They noted that the film itself remains a project they take pride in, while reaffirming their mutual commitment to maintaining professional, safe, and respectful workplaces.