Lawyer Wins Libel Case Against Husband’s Ex-Lover — But Verdict Is $5K
From Judge John Cronan’s decision today in Graterol-Garrido v. Vega (S.D.N.Y.); it’s interesting and detailed (32 pages), but here’s the Introduction:
Plaintiff Maria Herminia Graterol-Garrido brought this against Defendant Patricia Maria Vega, alleging that Vega made several defamatory statements about her on May 16, 2020. In 2010, Vega had a sexual encounter with Graterol-Garrido’s husband, which resulted in the birth of a child early the next year. The allegedly defamatory statements included social media postings that accused Graterol-Garrido of misconduct related to the resulting family court proceedings, Graterol-Garrido’s financial dealings, and other matters. Vega also sent messages over Facebook to Graterol-Garrido’s prospective business affiliate in Australia, conveying similar allegations.
A two-day bench trial occurred on November 9 and 10, 2021. For reasons that follow, the Court finds in favor of Graterol-Garrido as to all causes of action, concluding that Vega defamed Graterol-Garrido through various statements made on May 16, 2020, and awards judgment in the amount of $5,000….
Graterol-Garrido studied law in Venezuela before obtaining graduate degrees from Harvard University and Columbia Law School. She has specialized in women’s rights advocacy since 1995, has done extensive work with the United Nations including as a consultant, and has served on boards of directors for various nonprofit institutions.
And, as to damages:
“Presumed damages are justified
Article from Reason.com
