Former staffer Brittany Higgins has cast WA senator Linda Reynolds as the villain in a high-profile defamation trial. Reynolds’ lawyer, Martin Bennett, argued that the story presented by Higgins was a “rape and a fictional cover-up,” denying any truth to the alleged cover-up. The case is not centered around the alleged rape by former colleague Bruce Lehrmann, a claim he denies. Reynolds is accused of being sidelined in the handling of the dispute, which resulted in a $2.4 million settlement and implied guilt in the media.
The defamation trial, which opened with Bennett’s submissions, emphasizes that the allegations made by Higgins against Reynolds were false. The handling of the rape allegation by the former defence minister and the Commonwealth led to a swift settlement and media coverage that portrayed Reynolds in a negative light. Bennett highlighted that Reynolds was denied the proper time and funding to defend herself and her staff against the accusations. The implications of the settlement and media coverage have painted a picture of guilt on Reynolds.
Photographs and correspondence from Higgins’ campaign trail in Perth ahead of the 2019 federal election have been presented in court. Higgins claims she was ostracized and shut in a hotel room during her six-week stint, but evidence suggests otherwise. Bennett pointed to photographs and social media posts showing Higgins actively participating in campaign activities, door-knocking, attending events, and socializing at The Camfield. He portrayed Higgins as a young, vivacious individual campaigning for a Liberal candidate, contrary to her claims of being isolated during the campaign.
The trial continues to unfold, with the defense presenting evidence to challenge Higgins’ narrative and accusations against Reynolds. Bennett’s arguments seek to disprove the allegations made by Higgins and clear Reynolds’ reputation from any wrongdoing or cover-up. The defamation suit aims to set the record straight and counter the negative portrayal of Reynolds in the media. The legal proceedings focus on proving the falsehood of Higgins’ claims and restoring Reynolds’ credibility in the public eye.
Reynolds’ lawyer is determined to refute the narrative presented by Higgins and demonstrate the lack of truth in her allegations. The case delves into the details of the handling of the rape allegation and the subsequent fallout that resulted in a significant settlement for Higgins. The defense seeks to challenge the implication of guilt and wrongdoing on Reynolds’ part, painting a different picture of the events that transpired. The trial serves as an opportunity to present a counter-narrative and defend Reynolds against the accusations made by Higgins.
The defamation trial highlights the complexity of the legal battle between Higgins and Reynolds, with Bennett leading the efforts to prove the innocence of his client. The case sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals thrust into the spotlight of public scrutiny and media attention. Reynolds’ reputation hangs in the balance as the legal proceedings seek to uncover the truth behind the allegations and set the record straight. The ongoing trial reveals the intricacies of the case and the strategies employed to defend Reynolds against the claims made by Higgins.
