“Reacher” star Alan Ritchson could still face a legal battle with his neighbor over their explosive fight — despite authorities closing the investigation.
Celebrity criminal defense attorney and founder of Zuckerman Legal Group, Seth J. Zuckerman, exclusively spoke with Page Six after authorities determined that the actor will not face criminal charges after acting in self-defense in his Tennessee brawl with Ronnie Taylor.
“It is certainly possible that his neighbor will file a civil lawsuit against him for his medical bills and pain and suffering, and possible punitive damages,” Zuckerman said.
“Despite the police declaring that Ritchson was acting in self-defense, a civil case can be brought because it requires a lower burden of proof — preponderance of evidence— whereas a criminal case requires beyond a reasonable doubt,” he added.
The attorney noted that law enforcement’s decision not to pursue criminal charges does not prevent a civil lawsuit.
“However, if the victim is found partially at fault, which is likely the case here, the potential compensation would be reduced,” Zuckerman noted, adding, “Ritchson can file counterclaims against the neighbor, but it doesn’t appear that Ritchson was harmed in any way.”
Bryan M. Sullivan, a partner at Early Sullivan Wright Gizer & McRae LLP, believes Ritchson and Taylor may agree to mutual protective orders.
“In America, anyone can sue anyone for anything,” Sullivan said. “The neighbor can sue him for assault and battery, but, based on what I’ve read, Alan has a strong affirmative defense of self-defense and defending his children, and Alan could also sue the neighbor for assault and battery.
Los Angeles-based attorney Gregory Doll believes it’s “likely” for Taylor to pursue a civil case against Ritchson.
“Ordinarily, the chances of a civil case being filed are very high. … But I wouldn’t be surprised if there are some behind-the-scenes demand letters written by a lawyer seeking compensation for Taylor’s injuries and emotional distress,” Doll said.
“Whether that case makes it to court is anyone’s guess, but given how aggressive Ritchson’s actions were — in my view in appropriately so – I suspect he will be hearing from a lawyer soon,” he added.
This weekend, Ritchson, 43, was seen getting into a physical altercation with Taylor on their street in Brentwood, Tenn.
The dispute over Ritchson’s noisy motorbike, was captured in harrowing bodycam footage showing the Hollywood star punching Taylor in the head multiple times. Two young boys — presumed to be Ritchson’s sons — were seen standing nearby as the tussle unfolded.
Police closed the case after ruling that Ritchson acted in self-defense
“After reviewing available evidence, including video footage and witness statements, authorities determined that no criminal charges will be pursued. Mr. Ritchson’s actions were found to be in self-defense,” Brentwood Police Captain Steven Pepin told the Hollywood Reporter.
Pepin also confirmed that Ritchson declined to press charges against Taylor.
On Wednesday, Ritchson shared that he was back on the “Reacher” set to wrap filming for Season 4.
“Happy to be back in the booth after such a crazy week!” he wrote in an Instagram post. “That’s a wrap for me on post-production — #Reacher Season 4.”
“This is, without a doubt the most gripping season yet. I think we hit our stride. Firing on all cylinders… as it were,” he added.
Amazon Prime and Ritchson did not immediately respond to Page Six’s request for comment.
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