Rudy Giuliani is currently facing a potential contempt-of-court ruling in New York’s federal court for allegedly failing to comply with court orders in a defamation case brought by Georgia election workers Ruby Freeman and Wandrea Shaye Moss.
The case stems from Giuliani’s false claims of voter fraud involving Freeman and Moss, which led to harassment and death threats against them. A 2023 jury found Giuliani liable for defamation, ordering him to pay $148 million in damages.
At a recent contempt hearing, Giuliani defended himself, claiming his change in legal representation from Kenneth Caruso to Joseph Cammarata hindered his ability to meet deadlines. His new lawyer argued that Giuliani has made substantial compliance with court orders.
However, Freeman and Moss’s attorneys contended that Giuliani had not fully cooperated, including allegedly failing to turn over key assets, like a Joe DiMaggio jersey, which had been photographed hanging in his apartment but was no longer there during a search.
Despite these legal struggles, Giuliani’s defense is complicated by his extensive legal challenges, including multiple criminal cases in Georgia and Arizona related to attempts to overturn the 2020 election results.
Giuliani’s age and health issues, including breathing problems attributed to his time at Ground Zero following 9/11, were also discussed during the hearing.
If found in contempt, Giuliani could face jail time or fines. However, experts have clarified that civil contempt sentences cannot be pardoned by a president.
Since civil contempt is intended to compel compliance with a court order rather than punish past actions, Giuliani could remain incarcerated until he complies, as there would be no crime to pardon. This limits any potential help from Donald Trump if Giuliani loses the case.