Brittany Higgins: Bruce Lehrmann’s lawyers seeking legal advice over ex-Liberal staffer’s emotional outburst

The defence team for Bruce Lehrmann have been quick to pick up on Brittany Higgins’ emotional outburst outside court, referring it to Australian Federal Police and the ACT Supreme Court.

It is understood the team believes Ms Higgins’ teary TV speech could have breached laws around fair trials. If so, she could be charged with a criminal offence.

It comes after the jury in the accused rapist’s trial was discharged by Chief Justice Lucy McCallum on Thursday morning.

A short time later, Mr Lehrmann exited the court in silence.

His barrister Steve Whybrow said he was disappointed with the outcome but he was unable to comment further.

Ms Higgins then emerged from the court, clearing crying and with hands shaking.

She then fronted up to the waiting press pack, telling TV cameras: I chose to speak up... to speak up and share my experiences with others.

“I was cross-examined at length.”

Mr Whybrow later responded: “Notwithstanding Her Honour’s admonition, the complainant proceeded to give what appears to have been a pre-prepared speech to the media outside the court.

“We have brought these comments to the attention of the court and the Australian Federal Police and it is not appropriate for Mr Lehrmann or his lawyers to make any comment as to whether the complainant’s statements might amount to a contempt of court or offences against the ACT Criminal Code.

“Neither Mr Lehrmann nor his lawyers will be making any further comment on this matter at this stage.”

Mr Lehrmann had been standing trial accused of raping Ms Higgins after a drunken night out in March 2019. He has pleaded not guilty.

Justice McCallum sensationally dismissed the jury after finding out that a juror had accessed an article about the prevalence and reasons of false sexual assault complaints.

A new trial date has been set for February 20, 2023.