Bruce Lehrmann’s Legal Battles Continue: Appeals and New Challenges in 2025

Ongoing Legal Proceedings

Bruce Lehrmann has recently appeared in court to appeal Federal Court Justice Michael Lee’s decision that dismissed his defamation case against Network Ten and journalist Lisa Wilkinson. The original ruling found, on the balance of probabilities, that Lehrmann had raped his then-colleague Brittany Higgins.

Current Appeals and Proceedings

The ex-Liberal staffer alleges he was denied procedural fairness, claiming that the events found by the judge were “starkly different” from the case run by Ten. His legal team argues that he was “taken by surprise as to the nature of the rape”.

In a significant development, the Federal Court dismissed the requirement for him to pay $200,000 in security costs before the appeal. Additionally, Justice Abraham stayed the enforcement of a $2 million costs order against Lehrmann, acknowledging that enforcing this could lead to his bankruptcy.

Additional Legal Challenges

Lehrmann is currently facing multiple legal matters. He has appeared via telephone at the Magistrates Court of Tasmania on charges of stealing a four-wheel drive at Mountain River, Tasmania, where he entered a not guilty plea. Additionally, he has sued the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), alleging wrongdoing in relation to a raid on his house.

Queensland Proceedings

In another significant development, Lehrmann is seeking a judge-alone trial to fight rape charges in Queensland. The case had its first mention since the indictment on two rape charges was handed down in December. While he has yet to enter a plea, his legal representatives have indicated he denies the charges.

Previous Legal Outcomes

Earlier legal proceedings saw Lehrmann settle defamation proceedings against News Corp and the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) for $295,000 and $150,000 respectively, without admission of liability.