Judge to Decide Whether Fox News Defamation Case Will Proceed to Jury Trial Next Month

A judge in Delaware is set to decide whether to allow a defamation case against Fox News and Fox Corp. to proceed to a jury trial next month. The case was brought by Dominion Voting Systems, who allege that Fox News repeatedly promoted false claims that the company rigged the 2020 election.

Attorneys for both sides argued their cases in a two-day hearing in front of Superior Court Judge Eric Davis. Dominion’s attorney, Megan Murphy, argued that Fox News had caused significant damage to the company’s reputation, and that the evidence was clear and convincing enough for the judge to make a ruling. Fox’s attorney, Erin Murphy, argued that the claims made by Fox News were not believed by the public and therefore did not constitute defamation.

Judge Davis noted that this was a difficult case, and that he would rush to complete a summary judgement ruling ahead of the April trial. He also noted that the parties had agreed to work harder on the summary judgement in order to avoid losing the trial date.

Dominion Voting Systems is seeking damages for the harm done to their reputation, and the outcome of the case could have significant implications for the future of defamation law. A ruling is expected soon.