A $36 million judgment in the Bobbi Kristina wrongful death lawsuit

Two months after Nick Gordon was found "legally responsible" in connection to the death of Bobbi Kristina Brown last year, Fulton County Superior Court Judge T. Jackson Bedford has entered a judgment following the civil suit filed by Bobbi Kristina's estate against the man she often called her "husband."

The court has entered a judgment of more than $36 million in damages; the lawsuit sought $50 million.

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The lawsuit was filed by attorney Bedelia Hargrove on behalf of Bobbi Kristina's estate. The estate was represented in this action by Attorneys, lead counsel, R. David Ware of Hall Booth Smith, P.C. and, co-counsel, Glenda Hatchett of The Hatchett Firm, P.C.

Ware and Hatchett released statements reacting to the latest legal ruling:

“There was an urgent need, in my mind, to get justice for Bobbi Kristina Brown and that’s why I took the case," Ware said. "We intend to pursue, with all vigor, the full collection of the judgment. The defendant will not escape justice nor ever profit from his misdeeds. We hope that in some small way this will allow Krissy’s family to continue their quest for peace.”

Added Hatchett: "Domestic violence is a horrible reality in our society and Bobbi suffered such horrific pain and degradation at the hands of Nick Gordon, the man she loved and trusted. No one should suffer the way she did and the Judge sent a strong message in the award of punitive damages that this despicable behavior is inexcusable and will not be tolerated."

The ruling emanates from a civil lawsuit Bobbi Kristina's rep filed against Nick, not criminal proceedings. Here's the lawsuit.

Fulton County District Attorney Paul Howard's office took over the investigation initially launched by the Roswell police department.

Howard issued a statement after the prior ruling:

"As we have stated on numerous occasions and we will repeat again today, this case remains under active investigation by our office. Our investigation will encompass all relevant facts and circumstances, including the body and content of the civil action holding Nick Gordon civilly responsible for the death of Bobbi Kristina Brown."

Gordon didn't appear during the civil proceedings. His representatives haven't responded to requests for comment, although his legal team has previously blasted the civil suit filed against him by Brown’s estate.

About the Author

Jennifer Brett

I lead the AJC's team of breaking news, courts, crime and criminal justice reporters.