The Daily

What Depp v. Heard Means for #MeToo

Jun 6, 2022
Julia Jacobs, a culture reporter for The New York Times, dives into the aftermath of the highly publicized Depp v. Heard trial and its implications for the #MeToo movement. She discusses how the verdict could empower those accused of abuse to pursue defamation lawsuits, potentially silencing victims. The complexities of the courtroom dynamics are revealed, showing a battleground of opposing narratives. Jacobs highlights the chilling effect on future victims speaking out, raising critical questions about justice and accountability in a post-trial world.
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INSIGHT

Defamation as a Legal Strategy

  • The accused are using defamation lawsuits against their accusers as a legal strategy.
  • This has emerged since the rise of the #MeToo movement.
ANECDOTE

Depp v. Heard

  • Johnny Depp sued Amber Heard for defamation over a 2018 Washington Post op-ed.
  • Heard's op-ed, published after Harvey Weinstein's downfall, discussed the repercussions she faced for speaking out against domestic abuse.
INSIGHT

Defamation Burden of Proof

  • Proving defamation in the US requires the plaintiff to demonstrate that the statement was false and made with actual malice.
  • Actual malice means the person knew they were lying or had a high awareness of the statement's falsity.
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