The essentials
Two trials scheduled: defamation hearing September 7, 2025; criminal trial November 16, 2025.
Pierre Ménès filed a defamation lawsuit against Marie Portolano regarding allegations she published in her book. The defamation trial is scheduled for September 7, 2025 in Paris.
Separately, Ménès faces a criminal trial on November 16, 2025 in Nanterre, Hauts-de-Seine, related to sexual assault allegations.
Portolano did not file a criminal complaint against Ménès but expressed concern about potential backlash following her public allegations. The dual legal proceedings represent distinct phases in the ongoing case—one addressing civil defamation claims and the other addressing criminal charges.
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Court calendar establishes dual proceedings across civil and criminal courts
The case unfolds across parallel legal tracks. September 7, 2025 marks the defamation trial where Ménès challenges Portolano's published statements. November 16, 2025 brings the criminal proceedings addressing assault allegations. This timeline reflects the distinction between civil claims and criminal charges within the French judicial system.
Portolano's limited complaint narrows criminal scope while defamation case proceeds
Portolano's decision not to file a criminal complaint constrains the criminal proceedings' basis, despite her published allegations. Her stated concerns about backlash contextualize this procedural choice. Meanwhile, Ménès pursues civil defamation action, creating distinct legal battlegrounds where different burdens of proof and evidence standards apply.