Rudy Giuliani, former New York City mayor and personal lawyer to President Donald Trump, faces a crucial contempt hearing next Friday as two Georgia election poll workers continue their efforts to collect a $148 million defamation judgment against him.
The hearing, presided over by U.S. District Judge Lewis J. Liman in Manhattan, could result in significant consequences for Giuliani, including the potential forfeiture of his Palm Beach, Florida, residence. The case stems from Giuliani’s false claims that the poll workers tampered with ballots during the 2020 presidential election.
Judge Signals Tough Stance
In a Friday order, Judge Liman expressed frustration with what he described as Giuliani’s and his lawyer’s repeated attempts to avoid compliance with court-ordered information disclosures. He hinted at the possibility of making adverse inferences against Giuliani, which could increase the risk of his assets being seized to satisfy the judgment.
The poll workers’ lawyers are seeking items Giuliani was ordered to turn over in October, including a lease to his Manhattan apartment, a Mercedes, jewelry, and baseball memorabilia such as a signed Joe DiMaggio shirt. Failure to comply could strengthen the contempt ruling, potentially placing Giuliani’s Palm Beach home and other assets at risk.
Defamation Judgment Origins
The $148 million defamation award was issued last year after Giuliani was found liable for falsely accusing Georgia election workers Ruby Freeman and Wandrea “Shaye” Moss of ballot tampering. Giuliani’s claims, including allegations of sneaking ballots in suitcases and tampering with voting machines, were debunked but resulted in severe harassment and death threats against the poll workers.
Giuliani’s Legal Troubles Continue
Giuliani argues that his Palm Beach property is his personal residence and should be exempt from judgment collection. However, the contempt hearing comes as Giuliani faces a January 16 trial to determine the fate of his Florida residence and other assets, including World Series rings.
Giuliani’s legal team has indicated plans to appeal, predicting a favorable outcome in retaining the disputed items. Still, the November hearing preceding this one was marked by contention, with Giuliani angrily accusing Judge Liman of bias.
What’s Next?
The upcoming contempt hearing will determine whether Giuliani has adequately complied with court orders and whether additional sanctions will be imposed. Judge Liman has indicated that he may rule on the contempt request during the hearing.
This case underscores the escalating legal challenges for Giuliani, whose reputation as a former federal prosecutor has been overshadowed by his role in advancing baseless election fraud claims.
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