Bill Cosby Requests New Trial Over Excessive Damages

Bill Cosby has filed a request for a new trial following a California jury’s judgment that ordered the comedian to pay more than $59 million in damages. The legal challenge focuses on the scale of the financial award and the fairness of the trial proceedings.

The judgment stems from a case brought by Donna Motsinger, now 84, who alleged that Cosby drugged and assaulted her in 1972. The jury sided with Motsinger, awarding her $19.25 million in compensatory damages and $40 million in punitive damages, totaling $59.25 million.

Challenges to the Damages Award

In the request for a new trial, Cosby’s legal team argues that the punitive damages are grossly excessive. According to reports from TMZ, the defense claims the award represents one-third of Cosby’s net worth and serves no purpose for deterrence, particularly given that Cosby is 88 years old.

Attorney Jennifer Bonjean has characterized the damages as having no relation to the evidence presented during the trial. She asserted that the financial award was intended to make the comedian a symbol rather than to reflect the specifics of the plaintiff’s claims.

Arguments Regarding Trial Fairness

The defense is also challenging the fundamental fairness of the trial. Bonjean stated on March 24, 2026, that Cosby was denied a fair trial, arguing that it is impossible to meaningfully defend against allegations that are 50 years old.

The legal team contends that the case demonstrates a conflict between the retroactive abolition of statutes of limitations and the requirements of due process. They further allege that the proceedings became a trial of Cosby’s character rather than a focused evaluation of the specific claims made by Motsinger.

The jury was bombarded with uncharged, unproven accusations, turning the proceedings into a trial of Mr. Cosby’s character rather than an evaluation of the plaintiff’s claims.

Jennifer Bonjean, Attorney for Bill Cosby

The defense has described the outcome as a profound failure of the legal system and argued that it sets a dangerous precedent for future litigation.

Case Background and Next Steps

The verdict was described by Donna Motsinger as icing on the cake following the jury’s decision to hold the comedian liable for the 1972 assault.

Cosby’s legal team has confirmed plans to appeal the judgment. The current request for a new trial represents part of the broader effort to fight the $59.25 million verdict in the California court system.