The lawsuit by ZG against KC is only for about $15,000 right now because KC slandered (oral badmouthing) and libeled (written badmouthing) ZG. However, she did it to a limited group of people like LE. For that, ZG had to show actual damages. Now with punitives, it can be what lawyers call "Trebles" -- three times the amount of actual damages. It depends in part on how widely the badmouthing was spread. When CA "republished" the slander by repeating it on national television, the damages soared. Then, to get "punies" or punitive damages, ZG has to show intent. That was what the depo questions were about that CA had the chance on national television to say it wasn't ZG, but not only did she not do that, she republished the slander to a huge national and possibly international audience. The numbers could be shocking. Some have speculated that ZG and her attorney are going after CA's homeowner's insurance as a "deep pocket" of financing. Perhaps for the immediate gain. However, if punies are proven, it may be that under section 523(a) of the bankruptcy code, these are non-bankruptable debts. A judgement for punies can be renewed every 10 years so, it debt collection on a possible judgement debt can go on forever. It is also possible that the elements that might make this a punitive damages case may also exclude payment under a homeowners' policy. In debt collection, they can seize up to 25% of net, after tax, wages, tax refunds, certaikn amounts above a limit in bank accounts, drain trusts of the judgement debtor has the authority to release funds from a trust for their own benefit, seize cars or the value beyond a certain minimum, seize jewelry, and other assets. Florida has an exceptionally generous home exemption. The financial future of KC and CA could be looking mighty grim right now.
