Amber Heard has been awarded $2 million in compensatory damages after a Virginia judge reduced the punitive damages to $350,000 due to statutory limits. The ruling comes after a jury found that Heard had been defamed by statements made by Johnny Depp’s attorney regarding her abuse claims.
The case began in May 2016 when Heard filed for divorce from Depp and accused him of domestic violence. Depp denied the allegations and his attorney, Adam Waldman, released a statement to the media that Heard was attempting to “extort” Depp with her claims.
Heard then filed a cross-complaint against Depp and Waldman for defamation. The jury found in favor of Heard and awarded her $2 million in compensatory damages and no money for punitive damages. However, the judge reduced the punitive damages to $350,000 due to statutory limits.
The ruling is seen as a victory for Heard, who has been outspoken about her experiences with domestic violence. She has been a vocal advocate for survivors of domestic violence and has been a part of the #MeToo movement.
Heard’s attorney, Eric George, released a statement following the ruling saying, “The jury’s verdict is a clear statement that abusive behavior and lies to cover up such behavior will not be tolerated.”
The ruling is a reminder that victims of domestic violence should not be silenced and that those who attempt to discredit them will be held accountable. It is also a reminder that the legal system is still a powerful tool for survivors of domestic violence to seek justice.