Attorneys for Arnold Schwarzenegger asked a Los Angeles judge to implement heightened security protocols for an upcoming trial appearance, pointing to an Instagram promotion published by plaintiff’s lawyer Gary A. Dordick that featured the attorney dressed as the Terminator and listed the exact time and location of the actor’s expected testimony.
Arnold Schwarzenegger Faces Security Request Over Attorney’s Terminator Social Media Post
The legal filing, submitted to the Los Angeles County Superior Court, stems from a 2022 multi-vehicle traffic collision involving Schwarzenegger and plaintiff Cheryl Augustine. According to the documents obtained by the Los Angeles Times, Schwarzenegger’s legal team argues that Dordick’s social media post functions as a public advertisement for the appearance of one of the world’s most recognizable figures at a fixed date and time.
Court Security Requests and Trial Details
The upcoming October 12 trial is set to determine financial damages in Beverly Hills Superior Court before Judge Edward B. Moreton Jr. Augustine sued Schwarzenegger and his production company, Oak Productions Inc., over a January 21, 2022, crash near Sunset Boulevard and Allenford Avenue, alleging that the former governor made an illegal left turn and struck her Toyota Prius.
In response to the social media promotion, Schwarzenegger’s lawyers have asked the court to coordinate his arrival, departure, and seating with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. The filing also requests that the judge restrict audio, video, and photography recording both inside the courtroom and in courthouse corridors, while asking that Augustine cover any additional security expenses generated by the publicity.
While court dates are matters of public record, Schwarzenegger’s legal team contends that the Instagram post significantly amplified the risk by packaging the information for a widespread social media audience rather than requiring citizens to search the court’s official website.
Dordick’s post featured the personal injury attorney wearing dark sunglasses and a leather jacket alongside the phrase “I’ll be back,” referencing Schwarzenegger’s 1984 film role. The post also identified Schwarzenegger as the first witness scheduled to take the stand.
Disputed Damages and Prior Litigation
Schwarzenegger has conceded negligence in the 2022 collision, leaving the jury to resolve the extent of the damages owed to Augustine. Augustine’s legal representation maintains she sustained a traumatic brain injury alongside ongoing orthopedic and neurological issues that have permanently altered her personality and personal relationships.
The upcoming proceedings follow another recent lawsuit involving Schwarzenegger’s driving. In February 2023, Joanne Flickinger filed a separate complaint against the former governor alleging negligence after a bicycling accident on San Vicente Boulevard left her with severe and permanent injuries.
Judge Moreton has not yet issued a ruling on the security measures requested by Schwarzenegger’s legal team. The damages trial remains scheduled to proceed with Schwarzenegger slated as the initial witness.
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