James Toback Ordered to Pay $1.68 Billion in Landmark Sexual Assault Case
A Record-Breaking Verdict in New York
Renowned director and screenwriter James Toback has been ordered by a New York jury to pay a staggering $1.68 billion in damages after being found liable in a sexual assault case involving 40 women. The verdict, announced on April 9, 2025, is considered one of the largest ever awarded in a sexual misconduct lawsuit in the United States.
Decades of Abuse Come to Light
Toback, now 80, was accused of using his influence in the film industry to sexually assault and manipulate aspiring actresses over a span of more than four decades. Many of the women alleged that he lured them under the guise of professional opportunities, only to exploit them in private meetings at locations such as the Harvard Club, his editing studio, and even public parks in New York.
The Trial and Default Judgment
Although Toback initially denied the allegations and represented himself legally, he failed to attend pre-trial hearings or the trial itself. As a result, the court issued a default judgment against him. The jury’s sole task was to determine damages. After deliberations, they awarded $280 million in compensatory damages and $1.4 billion in punitive damages.
Legal Action Enabled by Adult Survivors Act
Thanks to New York's Adult Survivors Act — a law that temporarily suspends the statute of limitations for adult sexual assault cases — the women were able to file their lawsuit despite the events having taken place years, or even decades, earlier. The case was initially filed in December 2022, and the trial included live testimony from 20 women, along with video depositions from 20 others.
A Voice for Survivors
Lead plaintiff Mary Monahan called the verdict a life-changing moment. “For decades, I carried this trauma in silence. Today, a jury believed us. That changes everything,” she stated. “We are not disposable. We are not collateral damage.”
Karen Sklaire Watson, another plaintiff, emphasized the broader impact: “This verdict sends a clear message — predators cannot hide behind fame, wealth, or power.”
Will Victims See Any of the Money?
While attorneys for the plaintiffs admitted it’s unclear whether Toback has sufficient assets to cover the award, they stressed that justice was the primary objective. “This case wasn’t just about money. It was about truth and accountability,” said attorney Ross Leonoudakis.
The End of a Culture of Silence
The case against Toback comes years after initial allegations surfaced in 2017, shortly after the Harvey Weinstein scandal. At that time, the Los Angeles Times published a report detailing the accusations of 38 women. Since then, over 100 women have come forward.
Although the plaintiffs also sued the Harvard Club for allegedly enabling Toback’s abuse, that part of the lawsuit was dropped in January 2024.