Former Liberal senator Linda Reynolds has launched Federal Court proceedings against the Commonwealth and law firm HWL Ebsworth over the controversial $2.4 million settlement paid to her former staffer Brittany Higgins.
Legal Battle Escalates Over Settlement Process
The first case management hearing took place on Wednesday as Reynolds continues her fight for what her lawyer describes as "financial vindication" following her successful defamation case against Higgins in August. Reynolds argues she was completely excluded from the settlement process despite having strong grounds to defend against Higgins' mishandling claims.
The substantial payment to Higgins related to her allegations that Reynolds mishandled her claim of being raped by colleague Bruce Lehrmann at Parliament House in 2019. According to Reynolds' legal team, the settlement created public perception that all of Higgins' statements about her former boss were accurate.
Reputation Restoration and Public Support
Martin Bennett, Reynolds' lawyer, told reporters outside court that his client now feels "reputationally, very much vindicated" following her defamation victory. He revealed that Reynolds receives constant public support, even during overseas trips for defence matters, with people regularly approaching her to express admiration for her tenacity.
Bennett stated that while reputational restoration is progressing well, the current legal action seeks to achieve financial resolution. The case represents what he called "the last matter to resolve" in the ongoing dispute between the former senator and her ex-staffer.
Bankruptcy Proceedings and Court Timeline
Separate bankruptcy proceedings continue against both Brittany Higgins and her husband David Sharaz, with hearings scheduled for November 18 and December 16 respectively. Reynolds' legal team indicated they would take Higgins' claims of financial hardship "at face value" while pursuing the bankruptcy actions.
No next court date has been set for Reynolds' case against the Federal Government and HWL Ebsworth while an amended statement of claim is prepared. The government is represented by Ruth Higgins SC, while HWL Ebsworth appears through solicitor Natalie Donnan, with both legal representatives participating via videolink for the initial hearing.
The case is described as "essentially a negligence action" that lawyers hope to progress quickly through the simplified claims process. Defendants have until December to consider whether to seek summary judgment, with defences potentially due by February 6 if the case proceeds.
Reynolds was not present in court for Wednesday's hearing as she continues her campaign to restore her reputation following the highly publicised legal battles that have spanned several years.
