Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni Summoned to Attend Settlement Meeting in Person
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Hollywood stars, Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, are being strongly urged to attend a crucial settlement meeting in person. The two celebrities have been embroiled in a legal battle stemming from their work together on the film “It Ends With Us.” The case, which has been ongoing since December 2024, is set to reach a critical juncture as both parties are scheduled to meet for a settlement conference in February this year.
The legal dispute between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni will be addressed in a settlement conference on Wednesday, February 11. The meeting, ordered by United States Magistrate Judge Sarah L. Cave, is a standard procedure for civil cases being litigated in federal court. It is expected to take place in New York City at the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. The judge emphasized the importance of the presence of both parties and their attorneys in order to facilitate the settlement process effectively.
Legal expert Gregory Doll, not affiliated with the case, highlighted the significance of personal attendance at the settlement conference. He explained that parties are typically required to be physically present and are rarely excused to attend by phone. This ensures maximum impact during the negotiations and demonstrates the seriousness of reaching a resolution.
According to the court order, Blake Lively’s side has been instructed to present a settlement demand to Justin Baldoni by January 28, with a response expected by February 4. The conference will involve concise presentations from each party’s counsel summarizing the key issues for consideration. Following these presentations, the court will meet separately with each side to discuss legal fees and potential costs of continuing the litigation.
District Judge Lewis J. Liman, overseeing the case, previously directed Lively and Baldoni to explore a settlement with the magistrate judge during a motion hearing on December 9. Despite their trial date being set for May 18, 2026, the possibility of a trial remains if an agreement is not reached. However, the looming trial date often incentivizes parties to reevaluate and consider settling before proceeding to court.
The lawsuit initiated by Blake Lively against Justin Baldoni and his associates includes allegations of sexual harassment and retaliatory actions. Lively is seeking $160 million in damages, while Baldoni, denying any wrongdoing, counter-sued for $400 million, though his suit was dismissed in June. Given the personal nature of this lawsuit, legal experts suggest that a settlement may not be as straightforward as in other cases.
As the settlement conference approaches, all eyes will be on Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni to see if they can resolve their differences and put an end to this high-profile legal battle. The outcome of this meeting could determine the next steps in this ongoing saga between the two prominent Hollywood figures.