The article discusses the ongoing court case involving an alleged rape by an unnamed offender, later identified as Lehrmann. The case was dropped due to a jury member breaking the rules. Lehrmann denies the accusations and the case was subsequently abandoned, making it difficult for Ten’s lawyers to convince Justice Michael Lee of the crime. Justice Lee has questioned the credibility of both Lehrmann and the accuser, Higgins, stating that parts of their evidence cannot be accepted. The judge must be reasonably satisfied of what happened due to the serious nature of the allegation.
As the case progresses, Lehrmann faces possible financial ruin from legal costs and a damaged reputation. If the defamation is proved, compensation will be based on the damage done to Lehrmann’s reputation. In court, Lehrmann has been portrayed as a liar, sleaze, drug user, and manipulator, which could harm his reputation even if he wins the case. Potential perjury charges could also come into play if anyone lied under oath during the proceedings. Justice Lee may award token damages to deter wasting the court’s time, as seen in a previous defamation case.
Justice Lee was preparing to deliver his judgement when a new witness came forward with claims that Lehrmann was persuaded to participate in a Channel Seven interview with various incentives. As the case is reopened to consider these new allegations, Justice Lee will carefully examine statutes and precedents to provide a sound judgement. The comparison to the courtroom drama in Leon Uris’ novel QB V11, based on a real defamation case involving a concentration camp doctor, may provide inspiration for Justice Lee as he deliberates on the case.
Amidst a legal circus filled with credibility issues, unproven allegations, bombshell testimonies, and outrageous claims, Justice Lee is set to deliver his final judgement on Monday. The case has been a rollercoaster of events, with various twists and turns leading up to this moment. The outcome of the case will have significant implications for both Lehrmann and Channel Ten, with potential consequences for their reputations and financial well-being. As the legal proceedings come to a close, the resolution of the case will mark the end of a tumultuous chapter in both parties’ lives.
