Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni are set to meet in person for a settlement conference on February 11, 2026, in an effort to resolve their ongoing legal dispute stemming from the 2024 film It Ends With Us, according to a recent court order from United States Magistrate Judge Sarah L. Cave. Both actors, along with their attorneys, are strongly urged to attend the New York City session at the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, as their presence is considered “essential to the settlement process.”

Details of the Settlement Conference

The order specifies that both parties must appear personally, rather than remotely, in order to maximize the effectiveness of negotiations. Legal expert Gregory Doll explained to PEOPLE:

“Almost 100 percent of the time the parties are required to personally attend the settlement conference. Rarely are they excused and seldom allowed to appear by phone. The magistrate judge wants them there for maximum force and effect.”

The court has also set deadlines leading up to the conference:

• Blake Lively’s team must submit a settlement demand to Baldoni by January 28, 2026
• Justin Baldoni’s team must respond by February 4, 2026

At the conference, counsel for each side will present a 10–15 minute summary of key issues to the opposing party and the Court. Afterward, the Court will hold private sessions with each side to review attorney fees, expenses incurred, and projected litigation costs, including potential appeal costs.

Background of the Lively–Baldoni Legal Dispute

The legal battle began in December 2024, when Lively, 38, sued Baldoni, 41, her co-star and director on It Ends With Us, alleging sexual harassment and a retaliation campaign after she spoke up about misconduct on set. She sought $160 million in damages.

Baldoni denied any wrongdoing and filed a countersuit in January 2025, seeking $400 million, which was dismissed by District Judge Lewis J. Liman in June 2025.

The trial is currently scheduled for May 18, 2026, but the February settlement conference offers a potential avenue to avoid a full court battle. Legal experts note that the looming trial often encourages parties to reach an agreement:

“Many settlements occur right before trial. There is something about the looming trial date and reality of what is about to happen that makes parties reconsider their previous views about settlement,” Doll said.

Settlement Prospects

Although over 90 percent of civil cases typically settle before trial, experts suggest this dispute may be an exception due to its deeply personal nature. Doll added that the magistrate judge will emphasize the risks associated with going to trial, potentially encouraging both sides to find common ground.

The case has attracted significant public attention due to the high-profile nature of the actors and the sensitive allegations involved. Both Lively and Baldoni’s next steps, particularly whether they can reach a settlement in February, will determine whether the case proceeds to trial in May.