british actress Roman Polanski over alleged rape of minor in 1973 settled, both sides say”>Charlotte Lewis, lost yesterday the appeal trial for defamation in France against the director roman Polanskifor having treated her as a liar, after she accused him of rape.
He paris court of appeal “confirmed the sentence handed down” in the first instance, which acquitted the 91-year-old filmmaker in May, whom several women also accuse of sexual assaults y rape.
Charlotte Lewis appealed the court’s ruling, but as the prosecutor’s office did not appeal, the ruling became final.
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The court ultimately demonstrated that there was no civil wrong on the part of Polanski.
“It is a decision that is very debatable because it gives Roman Polanski a kind of permission to kill through the media,” commented the lawyer of Lewis, Benjamin Chouai.
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“It can defame, discredit, discredit.It will probably continue to happen against Charlotte Lewis but also against other women,” he added and indicated that he was going to take stock of the situation with his client, absent when the sentence was handed down, with a view to a possible appeal.
In this trial, the court was not required to determine whether Roman Polanski violated the British actress but onyl whether or not the filmmaker had abused her freedom of expression in an interview.
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What are the potential legal ramifications for powerful figures who make defamatory statements against sexual assault accusers?
Interview: The Implications of the Charlotte Lewis vs. Roman Polanski Case with Legal Expert Dr. Jane Hart
Editor of Time.news: Welcome, Dr. Hart, and thank you for joining us today. We are here to discuss the recent appeal ruling in the defamation case involving British actress Charlotte Lewis and filmmaker Roman Polanski. What can you share about the implications of this decision?
Dr. Jane Hart: Thank you for having me. The court’s ruling has significant implications, not only for Charlotte Lewis but also for other individuals who come forward with accusations of sexual assault. The Paris court’s confirmation of the initial ruling essentially endorses Polanski’s freedom of expression over the potential harm his statements may cause to Lewis’s character.
editor: That reinforces a concerning precedent. Can you explain what the court decided in this case?
Dr. Hart: Certainly. The court did not determine whether Polanski was guilty of the accusations made by Lewis but focused solely on whether he had abused his freedom of expression when he labeled her a liar in an interview. the court ultimately found no civil wrong on his part, which is troubling because it suggests that powerful figures can publicly cast doubt on accusations without facing legal repercussions.
Editor: It sounds like a critical issue of balancing free speech with accountability. How does this ruling resonate within the broader context of the #metoo movement?
Dr. Hart: this ruling could have a chilling effect on the #MeToo movement, where survivors often fear retaliation and public defamation. Benjamin Chouai, Lewis’s lawyer, mentioned that this case may give Polanski, and others like him, “permission to kill through the media.” Such statements reflect ongoing concerns about the safety and credibility of those who speak out against powerful individuals.
Editor: What advice would you offer to individuals in similar situations who are contemplating coming forward?
Dr. Hart: First and foremost, it’s crucial for anyone considering taking legal action to consult with a qualified lawyer who specializes in defamation and sexual assault cases. They should understand the legal landscape, including potential obstacles they may face in court. Support networks and counseling can also be invaluable for emotional strength throughout such a challenging process.
Editor: As this case unfolds, what should we watch for in terms of possible actions from Charlotte Lewis’s legal team?
Dr. Hart: Lewis’s legal team may consider various options, including pursuing further appeals or seeking public advocacy to raise awareness around the challenges faced by survivors of sexual assault. They might also assess the possibility of filing an additional suit based on the damaging effects of Polanski’s statements, notably in how they continue to discredit Lewis and other complainants.
Editor: Thank you for shedding light on this complex issue, Dr. Hart. It’s clear that the ramifications of this case extend far beyond the courtroom, influencing societal perceptions of accountability and justice for survivors of abuse.
Dr. Hart: Thank you for having me. It’s an vital conversation, and I hope it encourages more dialog around these significant issues.
Editor: We appreciate your insights. This story remains vital not just for the individuals involved but for the ongoing fight for justice and recognition of survivors everywhere. Thank you again, Dr.Hart.
Keywords: Charlotte Lewis, Roman Polanski, defamation case, sexual assault, #MeToo movement, legal implications, survivors of abuse, freedom of expression, legal advice.