Johnny Depp's Lawyers Say They'll Appeal 'Wife Beating' Ruling

Johnny Depp looks set to appeal the libel case he lost against The Sun newspaper on Monday, with the law-firm who represented him branding the ruling "perverse" and "bewildering".

It looks like the legal battle isn't over for the actor, 57 - best known for starring in hits like Pirates of the Caribbean, Edward Scissorhands and Sweeney Todd - after the dismissal of his case against the publication.

The legal case ensued after The Sun branded him a "wife beater" two years ago, following accusations from his now ex wife Amber Heard, which he denies.

In a statement, Depp's legal representatives, Schillings, said it would be "ridiculous" to accept the current ruling.

"The judgment is so flawed that it would be ridiculous for Mr Depp not to appeal this decision," the statement said.

"In the meantime, we hope that in contrast to this case, the ongoing libel proceedings in America are equitable, with both parties providing full disclosure rather than one side strategically cherry picking what evidence can and cannot be relied upon."

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It comes after yesterda - four months on from the court case between Depp and Heard - Mr Justice Nicol ruled in favour of News Group Newspapers (NGN) who publish the tabloid.

The court refused to award damages to the actor, with the ruling reading: "The Claimant has not succeeded in his action for libel.

"Although he has proved the necessary elements of his cause of action in libel, the Defendants have shown that what they published in the meaning which I have held the words to bear was substantially true.

"I have reached these conclusions having examined in detail the 14 incidents on which the Defendants rely as well as the overarching considerations which the Claimant submitted I should take into account...."

During the court case, evidence was heard from both Depp and Heard.

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Depp had to prove his reputation had suffered "serious harm" from the publication of the article, while NGN were required to prove what they had said about the actor was substantially true.

In a statement, Heard's lawyer said: "For those of us present for the London High Court trial, this decision and judgment are not a surprise.

"Very soon, we will be presenting even more voluminous evidence in the US. We are committed to obtaining justice for Amber Heard in the US Court and defending Ms Heard's right to free speech."

A spokesperson for the Sun added: "The Sun has stood up and campaigned for the victims of domestic abuse for over twenty years.

"Domestic abuse victims must never be silenced and we thank the Judge for his careful consideration and thank Amber Heard for her courage in giving evidence to the court."

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Lisa King, domestic violence charity Refuge's director of communications and external relations said on yesterday's decision: "That is a welcome message for survivors of domestic abuse around the world. We stand in solidarity with Amber Heard who has shown immense bravery in speaking up and speaking out.

"One in four women will experience domestic abuse at some point in their lifetime - it is the most pressing issue facing women and girls. Domestic abuse is a crime and it is vital that it is treated with the seriousness it deserves.

"If you need support Refuge is here for you. We will believe you and you will be heard. You can call us free, 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247, or visit www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk. You are not alone."

Topics: johnny depp, Celebrity News

Joanna Freedman

Joanna is a journalist at Tyla with a particular interest in highlighting women's issues and telling inspiring first person stories. She's also their resident foodie, and loves covering exciting new beauty launches, too. Contact her at [email protected].

@joannafreedman