In an unprecedented decision by a Harris County 12-person jury, a Houston resident, known as Jane Doe, has been awarded $1.2 billion in damages. This award follows a trial concerning injuries caused by an ex-boyfriend who published intimate photographs of her and used her identity to conduct fraudulent activities. The trial’s verdict, which was decided after only 30 minutes of deliberation, provided Jane Doe with $100 million for past mental anguish, $100 million for future mental anguish, and a staggering $1 billion in exemplary damages. To read more about this remarkable case, please click here.
Prior to the jury trial, Jane Doe’s attorneys had already obtained a default judgement on liability. However, co-counsel Jacob Schiffer stated that they presented evidence and witness testimony as if they still had to establish liability. The trial serves as a sobering reminder of the severe consequences that can arise from the misuse of personal and intimate material.