A significant development has emerged in the ongoing legal battle between actress Blake Lively and producer Justin Baldoni. According to a letter submitted by Kevin Fritz, an attorney representing Baldoni, Lively’s legal team has objected to Bryan Freedman, Baldoni’s lead counsel, conducting her deposition. This objection comes as the pre-trial conference approaches, where various claims including sexual harassment and defamation will be addressed.

The core of the disagreement lies in the right to choose who conducts the deposition. Fritz asserts that parties involved in litigation do not have the authority to dictate which opposing attorneys can conduct depositions. He further mentions that when asked for clarification on their objections, Lively’s legal team did not provide specific reasons. The upcoming pre-trial conference scheduled for early February is expected to delve into these matters, including discussions about appropriate conduct from both sides’ legal teams.

This legal saga began in December 2024 when Lively sued Wayfarer Studios and several individuals, including Baldoni, over allegations of sexual harassment and a retaliatory smear campaign. In response, Baldoni filed a countersuit against Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, and others for defamation and extortion. As both cases head toward trial in March 2026, the focus remains on ensuring fair proceedings and adherence to professional conduct rules. The importance of maintaining integrity in legal processes cannot be overstated, emphasizing the need for all parties to uphold justice and respect for the judicial system.