Cardi B Faces Courtroom Drama in Los Angeles Civil Case
Cardi B Steps Back into the Spotlight: Civil Trial in Los Angeles
August 27, 2025 marks another high‑profile court appearance for Cardi B—born Belcalis Almanzar—as she faces a civil lawsuit in Los Angeles. A security guard, Emani Ellis, who claims Cardi B assaulted her in 2018 at a Beverly Hills medical office, is currently pursuing damages. Cardi B took the stand on the trial's second day, staunchly denying physical assault and asserting that it was Ellis who acted aggressively.
On Monday, August 25, proceedings began with Ellis testifying about allegations that Cardi B spat on her, hurled insults, and scratched her with fingernails. On Tuesday, August 26, Cardi B took the witness stand herself—calling the lawsuit “a shakedown for money” and maintaining, “nobody touched each other.”
Legal Snapshot: Trial Timeline and Key Testimonies
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| August 25, 2025 | Emani Ellis testifies—alleging assault by Cardi B. |
| August 26, 2025 | Cardi B arrives and prepares to testify. Stylish in court. |
| August 27, 2025 | Cardi B takes the stand and delivers her defense. |
Courtroom Fashion: Cardi B’s Signature Style Makes Headlines
Cardi B turned heads yet again—not just for her testimony, but for her impeccable courtroom fashion. On August 26, she strode into court in a patched-together couture look—a fringed jacket and tailored pants—with pointed heels and sleek blonde hair. Observers noted that her ensemble prioritized statement-making over comfort in the sweltering L.A. heat.
Her flair for courtroom fashion isn’t new. In 2019, she arrived at Queens Criminal Court in an all-black suit with a feather cape and matching hat; another time, she carried a custom Hermès Birkin, and at a 2023 compliance hearing, she wore an all-white designer outfit with a fur coat.
Allegations & Cardi B’s Defense: What’s at Stake?
Here’s a breakdown of the central claims and Cardi B’s responses:
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Allegations by Emani Ellis (Plaintiff):
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In 2018, while Cardi B was pregnant, Ellis claims she confronted her as Cardi entered a medical building.
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Claims include assault, spitting, derogatory remarks, and fingernail cuts to the face requiring plastic surgery.
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Cardi B’s Defense:
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Maintains no physical contact occurred; it was purely verbal and provoked by Ellis recording her without consent.
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Called the case a money-driven shakedown and contended that Ellis was the initial aggressor.
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A Brief History: Cardi B’s Past Legal Encounters
List‑style rundown of significant past legal events involving Cardi B:
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2018 – Strip Club Assault Case
Cardi B pleaded guilty to two misdemeanors—third-degree assault and second-degree reckless endangerment—after a Queens strip‑club brawl. She received 15 days of community service and a three-year restraining order from the victims. -
2022 – Defamation Lawsuit vs. Tasha K (YouTuber)
Cardi B won a landmark defamation case, securing approximately $3.82 million in damages—$1.25 million from jury verdict and additional sums in further proceedings. -
2023 – Las Vegas Mic‑Throwing Lawsuit
A fan sued Cardi B, alleging injury from a thrown microphone after a water‑splash incident. No criminal charges were filed.
Verdict Pending: What Comes Next?
As of August 27, 2025, the civil trial is ongoing in Los Angeles. Cardi B's courtroom defense is clear: no assault occurred, and she was defending her privacy while pregnant. Ellis’s testimony frames the case as physical, emotional, and potentially racially tinged.
What to Watch For:
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Final verdict—will it include monetary damages?
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Potential media repercussions shaping Cardi B’s brand and public image.
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Whether this trial influences her upcoming album release and promotional schedule.
Conclusion: Cardi B’s Courtroom Battle — More Than Just a Legal Fight
Cardi B’s ongoing court case is a vivid reminder of how fame and legal challenges often collide in the public eye. Beyond the allegations and courtroom drama lies a story about privacy, reputation, and the cost of celebrity. Whether she prevails or faces consequences, this trial will undoubtedly shape the next chapter of Cardi B’s career and public persona.
As the trial unfolds, fans and observers alike will be watching closely—not just for the verdict, but for how Cardi B navigates the complex intersection of law, media, and artistry. Stay tuned for more updates on this gripping legal saga.
