Diddy’s Lawyers Ask to Withdraw From $100 Million Defamation Lawsuit, He Responds to Unpaid Fees Claim

Sean “Diddy” Combs is facing another change to his legal team.

Why Are Diddy’s Lawyers Asking to Withdraw From His Lawsuit?

Attorneys representing the 56-year-old music mogul in his $100 million defamation lawsuit have filed a motion asking to withdraw from the case, claiming that he owes a substantial amount in unpaid legal fees.

The lawyers also alleged that a lack of communication and cooperation from Diddy has made it difficult to continue representing him.

However, Diddy is disputing their version of events and says he made the decision to switch lawyers himself.

Attorney Michael Tremonte, a partner at Sher Tremonte LLP, claimed in court documents obtained by Page Six that Diddy “has not paid a substantial balance of attorney’s fees, costs, and expenses.”

He alleged that the rapper has been behind on payments for more than six months.

“For many months, while Sher Tremonte has been rendering legal services, Mr. Combs has not remitted any payment for the substantial balance of attorney’s fees, costs, and expenses incurred during Sher Tremonte‘s representation of him in this matter,” the filing states.

The attorney also claimed that Diddy has not made himself available for “timely, substantive, and direct communications” about his cases for more than four months, leading to a breakdown in their relationship.

What Did Diddy Say About the Unpaid Legal Fees Claim?

Diddy responded to the claims in a statement provided to the outlet through a rep.

“I made the decision to switch lawyers because I won’t let anyone take advantage of me by overcharging me and running up bills that were never approved,” he said.

“This is strictly a business matter, and any talk about unpaid fees is just part of our dispute over those unapproved charges,” Diddy added.

What Is Diddy’s $100 Million Defamation Lawsuit About?

The lawsuit was originally filed in January 2025 against Courtney Burgess, attorney Ariel Mitchell and Nexstar Media Inc., which operates NewsNation. Diddy accused them of spreading false claims that Courtney possessed videos allegedly involving the rapper and other celebrities. The lawsuit originally sought $50 million before being amended to seek $100 million.

Diddy is currently serving a 50-month federal prison sentence after he was convicted on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution. He was acquitted of the more serious sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy charges. His current release date is scheduled for February 5, 2028.

Find out why Diddy‘s prison release date recently changed again.

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