Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni recently announced the conclusion of a significant legal dispute, which they both characterised as a victory. However, legal experts suggest that an unresolved motion could yield substantial financial implications for Lively, with potential damages and attorneys’ fees still at stake.
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Lively and Baldoni reached a settlement prior to their case being heard in New York, a necessary step that came after their contentious legal battle began in December 2024. Lively had accused Baldoni, who directed the film “It Ends With Us,” of sexual harassment and retaliation, alleging that he and members of his team had orchestrated a smear campaign against her following her complaints about the atmosphere on set.
Despite having settled, a substantial aspect of Lively’s case remains pending, specifically a motion under California Civil Code Section 47.1. This legal clause allows individuals who defend against retaliatory defamation lawsuits related to sexual harassment claims to seek compensation for their legal fees and additional damages. Legal advisors believe that this could be a significant financial avenue for Lively, potentially amounting to millions.
Legal expert Tre Lovell commented on the situation, indicating that Lively’s remaining motion could be more than just a small claim. He stated, “It could easily be seven figures, if not more, if she can substantiate damages.” He emphasised that with the case already before the court, the process could progress relatively quickly.
On the flip side, attorney Richard Schoenstein voiced caution over the likelihood of Lively receiving a payout. He remarked that while she might have a valid claim for fees related to her defence against Baldoni’s defamation counterclaim, the court process would determine whether she is indeed entitled to those funds and the extent of any financial award. “There would be a whole process in court for determining if she has a right to that money and then for determining the amount,” he explained.
An important aspect of Lively’s potential financial recovery will likely centre around attorneys’ fees. Since a large portion of Lively’s initial lawsuit was dismissed, there could be contention regarding how much she is entitled to. Schoenstein pointed out that Baldoni’s team might argue that Lively should only recover legal costs associated with defending against his defamation claims. He noted, “She’s not entitled to a dime for her 13 causes of action that have been dismissed.”
In a statement following the settlement, Baldoni’s legal representative, Bryan Freedman, downplayed the significance of Lively’s outstanding motion, describing it as a request for fees linked to a “very narrow issue” that had been pending in court since September 2025.
Despite the declarations of triumph from both sides, Schoenstein raised eyebrows at the claims, describing the notion of mutual victory as “preposterous.” He pointed out that neither party retains any of their original claims as part of the case.
The settlement appears to signal the end of an exploratory chapter for both Lively and Baldoni, yet the lingering motion may still lead to complexity as they navigate their respective legal standings moving forward. With large sums of money potentially at stake, both sides will be watching closely how the remaining motion unfolds in court.
As the story develops, media coverage is likely to continue monitoring this high-profile case involving two notable figures in entertainment, particularly with regards to the implications for workplace conduct in the industry. The legal disputes that have unfolded also serve as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in accusations of misconduct and the resultant legal proceedings.