Judge

Federal Judge Dismisses Justin Baldoni’s Defamation Claims Against Blake Lively, Allows Limited Contract Dispute to Proceed

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A federal judge in New York has dismissed actor Justin Baldoni’s claims of extortion and defamation against actress Blake Lively, though he will still have an opportunity to pursue limited contract-related issues in their legal battle. The conflict between the co-stars of “It Ends With Us” has escalated into a legal feud that began in earnest this January. Baldoni’s legal action followed Lively’s initial lawsuit filed in December, which included allegations of sexual harassment, retaliation, breach of contract, and emotional distress. Her case remains open as it navigates through the judicial system. U.S. District Judge … Read more

Federal Judge Blocks Trump Administration’s Diversity Funding Restrictions, Upholding LGBTQ Rights

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A federal judge in San Francisco ruled Monday against executive orders issued by the Trump administration that aimed to curb diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives among organizations seeking federal funding. The orders required these groups to halt certain programs and reassess their acknowledgment of transgender individuals to qualify for grants. U.S. District Judge Jon Tigar stated that pro-LGBTQ nonprofits demonstrated a strong likelihood of being able to challenge these executive orders, which they argue violate constitutional rights. In his ruling, Tigar noted that the provisions aimed to censor constitutionally protected speech while undermining services that … Read more

Legal Drama Unfolds as Judge Faces Conduct Hearing Over Alleged Courthouse Escape of Illegal Immigrant

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NEWTON, Mass. — An attorney who facilitated the exit of his illegal immigrant client from a courthouse testified Monday that he believed he was acting with judicial approval during a controversial maneuver that has sparked a judicial conduct hearing. David Jellinek, the lawyer involved, stated he recognized the risks of his actions but felt they were justifiable under the circumstances. The hearing by the Commission on Judicial Conduct revolves around Newton District Court Judge Shelley Joseph, who faces civil charges for allegedly collaborating with Jellinek and a court officer to help his client, Jose Medina-Perez, … Read more

Federal Judge Reduces $7.5 Million Verdict in High-Profile Harassment Case Against Medical Device Company

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A federal judge in New York has significantly reduced a jury’s award in a sexual harassment lawsuit brought by a former employee of a medical device company. The jury had initially awarded $7.5 million after determining that the employee faced years of harassment and was wrongfully terminated after raising complaints. The employee alleged that she experienced a toxic work environment marked by sexual advances and inappropriate comments from coworkers and supervisors. After voicing her concerns, she claimed to have faced retaliation, culminating in her dismissal from the company. The judge’s ruling comes after a careful … Read more