Legal, psychiatric, and relationship experts examine the dynamics of Depp’s defamation trial against Heard.
The first, and most obvious, is the truth: Jurors must be convinced whether Depp abused Heard.
The second challenge is the focus of the lawsuit: the op-ed itself.
Johnny Depp testifies in defamation trial against Amber Heard in April 2022.STEVE HELBER/POOL/AFP via Getty Images
To prevail in court, Depp has to prove malice on Heard’s part.
Anderson later clarified that Heard said she “fought back” after Depp got physical.
The mutual abuse claim has proven controversial.
Amber Heard in court.STEVE HELBER/POOL/AFP via Getty Images
She also testified that Heard employed psychological aggression and reactive violence during altercations.
That being said, abuse is not always perpetrated exclusively by one partner."
Sterling adds, “Both partners were egregious in their behaviors, and neither seems to realize their culpability.
Johnny Depp and Amber Heard in 2011.John Phillips/getty
Taylor also thinks the #MeToo movement could factor in, and may give Heard an advantage.
However, Depp’s case is “built around the same narrative as Heard’s,” Taylor contends.
“He is, in essence, making his own #MeToo claim,” she continues.
This will come down to both credibility and evidence.”
Taylor expects thevolatile audio recordings between Depp and Heardto feature in Depp’s team’s closing argument.
“Jurors also heard Ms. Heard’s own voice saying harmful things.
She has admitted some level of abuse.
According to Sterling, the recordings are one of “many” relationship red flags.
“People who record disagreements almost always do it because they think they’re innocent.
“No matter who wins, there are truly no winners,” Taylor says.
“Depp lives an enormously privileged life,” he says.
(Heard began testifying Wednesday.)
