A federal judge in New York City is about to reveal a court document linked to Rudy Giuliani’s legal battles with two Georgia election workers he defamed—Ruby Freeman and her daughter, Wandrea “Shaye” Moss. This case, which resulted in a hefty $148 million judgment against Giuliani, has been filled with heated disputes as Freeman and Moss fight to collect the money they’re owed.
Giuliani’s legal troubles took another twist when his lead attorneys, Kenneth Caruso and David Labkowski, suddenly withdrew from representing him last month. What’s surprising is that they reportedly didn’t even tell Giuliani they were stepping away. In their motion to withdraw, the attorneys pointed to professional conduct rules that allow them to leave a case if there’s a major disagreement with the client or if continuing to represent them becomes too difficult. They also mentioned situations where the client’s arguments can’t be supported in good faith.
Initially, Caruso and Labkowski wanted to keep their withdrawal documents private, but Judge Lewis Liman refused. Instead, he allowed a redacted version to be shared with the public.
Meanwhile, Giuliani is in hot water for allegedly not complying with court orders or handing over documents to Freeman and Moss. On Thursday, he responded by filing a statement blaming his former lawyers for any missteps. He claimed he never intentionally ignored court orders and said any missing documents weren’t his fault. “I relied on my previous attorneys to meet the court’s deadlines and demands,” Giuliani said, adding that his new lawyer, Joseph Cammarata, has since helped him provide all the required documents.
Judge Liman isn’t letting the matter slide, though. On Friday, he asked all parties to let the court know by December 21 whether there’s any reason to keep Caruso and Labkowski’s withdrawal declarations sealed. Liman cited legal precedent, emphasizing that keeping court records hidden for too long could violate the public’s right to access.
Giuliani’s relationship with Judge Liman has been anything but smooth. Last month, during a court hearing, Giuliani interrupted Liman and exclaimed, “You are against me!” Afterward, he spoke to reporters outside the courthouse, calling Liman an “activist Democrat,” even though the judge was appointed by former President Donald Trump in 2019. Giuliani went on to accuse the judge of caring more about popularity than justice, referring to the ongoing litigation as “lawfare.”
The drama didn’t end there. Giuliani reportedly continued criticizing the judge as he stepped into an elevator, saying, “He doesn’t give a damn about the truth.”
This unfolding legal saga, set against the backdrop of New York City’s federal courts, highlights the high stakes and fiery exchanges in Giuliani’s ongoing legal battles.
