Rudy Giuliani on the Hook for $148 Million in Damages to Georgia Election Workers
The Verdict
Rudy Giuliani, the former personal attorney for Donald Trump, has been ordered to pay $148 million in damages to two Georgia election workers, Ruby Freeman and Wandrea ‘Shaye’ Moss. The damages stem from Giuliani’s false claims that the women were involved in voter fraud during the 2020 election. The jury awarded each of the workers millions of dollars in compensation and damages for emotional distress.
The Financial Challenges
Legal experts believe that Giuliani will likely be unable to pay the enormous amount owed. Giuliani is already facing financial difficulties due to various lawsuits and legal troubles. Even filing for bankruptcy will not absolve him of his debt, as bankruptcy laws do not apply to intentionally malicious acts.
Collection Challenges
Collecting the damages owed from Giuliani may prove to be a challenge for the plaintiffs. While wage garnishment, property liens, or bank account levies could potentially be pursued, Giuliani may not have the funds or assets to fulfill the payment. However, the judgment will remain in effect indefinitely, allowing for the possibility of future collection if Giuliani obtains a windfall.
The Bankruptcy Route
Bankruptcy is not a viable option for Giuliani to discharge his debt. Bankruptcy lawyers have stated that he cannot use bankruptcy law to avoid payment due to the nature of the judgment being based on willful and malicious acts. Giuliani may be able to initiate a payment plan and delay collection efforts, but this would require strict adherence to bankruptcy rules and may not be successful.
The Road Ahead
It is unclear how much of the $148 million judgment Freeman and Moss will be able to collect given Giuliani’s financial difficulties. Giuliani also faces additional legal challenges and lawsuits related to the 2020 election. The former mayor and Donald Trump were indicted earlier this year for their efforts to overturn Georgia’s election results.
Source: Rudy Giuliani can’t make his $148 million defamation judgment go away even if he can’t pay
