Summary of Monica Smit ordered to pay $250K after WINNING unlawful Covid arrest case

Monica Smit, a prominent figure in the Australian freedom movement during the COVID-19 pandemic, has faced a significant financial setback despite winning a court case regarding her unlawful arrests. Smit represented herself in court against a team of professional lawyers and successfully proved that two out of her three arrests were unlawful, seeking public vindication rather than a monetary settlement. However, after the trial, she was ordered to pay over $250,000 in legal costs to the opposing party, which she argues sends a dangerous message to individuals who might consider standing up for their rights.

Smit had previously been offered $155,000 to settle the case before going to trial, but she rejected this offer because it did not include a public apology from the police. She emphasized that her pursuit was not about money but about holding the authorities accountable for their actions during the pandemic. Despite winning the case in terms of proving the unlawfulness of her arrests, the judge awarded her only $4,000 in damages, which Smit felt was inadequate.

The outcome has led Smit to express concerns about the judicial system, suggesting that it discourages individuals from pursuing justice due to the potential financial repercussions of rejecting settlement offers. She plans to appeal the cost order, stating her commitment to advocating for others who have faced similar injustices.

Presenters/Contributors:

Notable Quotes

— 08:02 — « Oh hell no, no way! I'm so glad I didn't [take the deal] because like I said, it highlights that this sort of situation can happen. »
— 08:16 — « I have said many times that I'm willing to lose everything to stand up for my rights because it's not just my rights; there were hundreds and thousands of people arrested unlawfully during pro-Freedom rallies. »
— 09:48 — « Monica's story is of public interest; remember she was arrested unlawfully at least twice now for daring to stand up to the state. »

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