Blake Lively Drops Claims Of Emotional Distress Against Justin Baldoni In Ongoing Lawsuit

Judge rules that Blake Lively's claims of emotional distress against Justin Baldoni are officially dropped.

In the highly publicised legal drama between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, Lively decided to drop 2 claims that her team had initially made against Baldoni. On June 2, Blake requested a withdrawal and dismissal of her initial claims, which accused Baldoni of intentional infliction of emotional distress and negligent infliction of emotional distress. The overseeing judge of the case has stated that the claims have officially been withdrawn.

How Did Blake Lively Withdraw The Claims?

Though Blake has agreed to drop the claims, the It Ends With Us actress is only willing to withdraw them without prejudice. Dropping claims without prejudice signifies a legal privilege that protects communications made during settlement negotiations from being used as evidence in court. Blake Lively has refused to withdraw the claims with prejudice, as requested by Baldoni’s team.

In a statement to People Magazine, Blake’s lawyers Esra Hudson and Mike Gottlieb stated that, “Once again, this is a routine part of the litigation process that is being used as a press stunt.” They added– “We are doing what trial lawyers do: preparing our case for trial by streamlining and focusing it; they are doing what they do: desperately seeking another tired round of tabloid coverage.”

Justin Baldoni’s Legal Team’s Response

Justin’s legal team, however, stated that the emotional distress claims have been withdrawn by Lively, as evidence of the claims may be requested to be issued in court. In that case, Blake Lively would have to produce and identify her medical and mental health care providers in the courtroom. She would also have to provide access to therapy notes and other relevant medical information about these claims. Justin’s lawyer, Kevin Fritz, wrote this in a letter addressed to Judge Lewis J. Liman.

Also Read: Is Blake Lively Still A Close Friend Of Taylor Swift? Reports Suggest THIS!

What Did The Judge Say?

According to Variety, in response to the statements, Judge Lewis Liman has said that, “the parties shall stipulate to whether the dismissal is with or without prejudice, or Lively shall renew her request by formal motion. For avoidance of doubt, if the claims are not dismissed, the court will preclude Lively from offering any evidence of emotional distress.” Additionally, the judge also wrote, “the parties shall stipulate to whether the dismissal is with or without prejudice, or Lively shall renew her request by formal motion. For avoidance of doubt, if the claims are not dismissed, the court will preclude Lively from offering any evidence of emotional distress.”

Blake Lively’s lawyers, however, continue to allege several other claims in her lawsuit, such as sexual harassment and retaliation, and massive additional compensatory damages on all of her claims. Justin Baldoni sued Blake Lively on January 16, 2025, for $400 million. The lawsuit filed accused Blake Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, of civil extortion, defamation, and invasion of privacy.

Also Read: Blake Lively’s Lawyers Slam Justin Baldoni’s Legal Filing As PR Move Amid Ongoing Court Battle

First Published: June 04, 2025 1:53 PM