A Federal Court judge has made a significant ruling in the defamation lawsuit brought by Bruce Lehrmann against Network Ten. The judge determined that, on the balance of probabilities, Brittany Higgins was raped by Lehrmann, her former colleague, in an office setting. This finding has been a pivotal moment in the case.

Despite this setback, Lehrmann has not conceded defeat. He recently lost an appeal challenging the judge’s finding, yet he remains determined to continue his legal battle, indicating plans to bring the case before the High Court. Lehrmann steadfastly denies the rape allegation, which has been a central issue since his criminal trial was disrupted due to juror misconduct.

In a related development, David Sharaz, Higgins’ husband, has been served with a bankruptcy notice by former politician Linda Reynolds. This comes in the wake of a defamation ruling against Sharaz, which resulted in an order for him to pay $85,000 in damages, along with additional interest and legal costs. It is anticipated that Sharaz will declare bankruptcy as a consequence of these financial obligations.

Higgins’ husband, David Sharaz, was also served with a bankruptcy notice by Reynolds and is expected to declare bankruptcy.

He was also found to have defamed the former politician and was ordered to pay $85,000 in damages plus interest and costs.