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Conor McGregor accused of insulting jury following civil trial in costs hearing

The High Court is hearing arguments in relation to legal costs arising from Ms Hand’s successful lawsuit against the MMA fighter, whom she had accused of raping her.
Frank Greaney
Frank Greaney

13.18 5 Dec 2024


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Conor McGregor accused of insu...

Conor McGregor accused of insulting jury following civil trial in costs hearing

Frank Greaney
Frank Greaney

13.18 5 Dec 2024


Share this article


This report contains details of a sexual nature that some readers may find distressing.

Nikita Hand’s barrister has accused Conor McGregor of directly insulting the jury in his civil rape trial by describing the court as a “kangaroo court” in an online post.

The High Court is hearing arguments in relation to legal costs arising from Ms Hand’s successful lawsuit against the MMA fighter, whom she had accused of raping her.

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The 35-year-old mother-of-one lost her case against Mr McGregor’s friend, James Lawrence, and is therefore not seeking her costs against him directly.

However, she is looking for Mr McGregor to pay her costs arising from the unsuccessful lawsuit against Mr Lawrence, arguing it was a joint defence, "with one relying on the other."

Ms Hand’s barrister also accused Mr McGregor of using social media to “disparage” the court, and urged the judge to take this into account when assessing who pays what.

Nikita Hand Nikita Hand reads a statement to press outside the High Court. 22/11/2024 Photograph: Eamonn Farrell / © RollingNews.ie

During the civil jury trial, Nikita Hand described how Conor McGregor pinned her on a bed in the penthouse suite of the Beacon Hotel almost six years ago to the day.

She said he got her in a chokehold and raped her.

She successfully sued him for damages; but lost her case against James Lawrence.

When it comes to costs, the general rule of thumb is that the loser pays, but Ms Hand’s barrister has urged the judge to make McGregor pay for the entire bill.

McGregor covered his friend’s costs, and Ms Hand’s lawyers believes he should also pay her bill for the case against Mr Lawrence because it was run as a “joint defence”.

Lawyers for the other side are contesting her application for the highest level of costs to be awarded to her.

A decision could be made as early as this afternoon.

If you have been impacted by rape or sexual assault you can contact the Rape Crisis Centre 24-Hour National Helpline on 1800 77 8888.

Conor McGregor at the High Court. 19/11/2024 Photo: Leon Farrell/© RollingNews.ie


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