The six-week bitter trial between Johnny Depp and Amber Heard is finally over. The jury have come to their verdict: Amber Heard has been ordered to pay Depp $10 million in compensatory damages and $5 million in punitive damages, which was reduced to Virginia's cap of $350,000, whilst Depp will have to pay Heard $2 million.
So, will Amber Heard be able to pay this vast sum, and what happens if she just can’t manage it?
Will Heard Be Able To Cover The Damages?
In their Divorce case in 2016, Heard received $7 million in divorce settlement, which she said she was going to give to charity. However, during the recent trial the 36 year old claimed she couldn't act on her word, after Depp had sued her for $50 million. During the trial Heard stated "I fully intend to honour all of my pledges. I would love for him to stop suing me so I can." It now seems unlikely whether she will ever be able to keep her pledge with her now owing over $10 million dollars to her ex-husband.
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As well as the money from the divorce settlement Heard also has what she earned from the Aquaman films, with the sequel coming out next year. Although Heard has made millions from her work, her legal costs stacked up during the trial. Amber Heard's net worth is reportedly around $8 million, over two million dollars short of what she now owes Depp. With all this in mind it is looking like Heard might not be able to pay what she owes in damages.
What Happens If Amber Heard Can’t Pay?
Heard may attempt to appeal the Jury’s decision, as she said in a statement after the verdict: “The disappointment I feel today is beyond words. I’m heartbroken that the mountain of evidence still was not enough to stand up to the disproportionate power, influence, and sway of my ex-husband.” However, even if Heard does try to appeal the verdict, she will still have to post a bond for the full amount.
If the money really can’t be paid, there is a chance that the actress’ wages could be garnished, this means she would have to dedicate a portion of her paycheck to Depp until the sum is paid off. Heard could file for bankruptcy, which would mean she wouldn't have to pay the $10 million figure.
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The other outcome is that Depp might not demand Heard to pay in full, in an instagram comment the actor said the “goal of bringing this case was to reveal the truth, regardless of the outcome." It is unclear whether or not Depp will ask for the full sum of damages, but the question still remains if Heard would actually be able to pay.
Topics: Johnny Depp, Amber Heard