In a significant development, prominent attorney Tony Buzbee has withdrawn from multiple lawsuits against music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs. This decision stems from procedural issues regarding Buzbee’s authorization to practice law in the Southern District of New York (SDNY).
Admission Issues Lead to Withdrawal
Buzbee, known for representing numerous clients in high-profile cases, faced challenges due to his lack of admission to practice in the SDNY. In a letter to U.S. District Judge Ronnie Abrams, Buzbee acknowledged his oversight, stating, “I made an error in judgment by failing to inform you that I was not admitted to the Southern District.” He further expressed that his admission status had become a “distraction” detracting from the focus on securing justice for his clients.
Consequently, Buzbee filed motions to withdraw from 15 federal cases against Combs in the SDNY. Despite his withdrawal, the plaintiffs continue to be represented by other legal teams, ensuring that the lawsuits proceed without interruption.
Broader Implications and Ongoing Legal Battles for Diddy
This development occurs amid a complex legal landscape involving Combs. In October 2024, Buzbee announced he was representing over 100 individuals alleging sexual misconduct by Combs, including 25 minors. One notable case involved allegations against both Combs and fellow rapper Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter, accusing them of raping a 13-year-old girl in 2000. However, this particular lawsuit was voluntarily dismissed in February 2025, with Jay-Z’s legal team labeling the allegations as baseless.
Buzbee’s withdrawal from the federal cases does not mark the end of his involvement in related litigation. He continues to represent clients in state courts across New York and plans to file additional cases in Nevada and California. Addressing his withdrawal, Buzbee clarified, “I personally withdrew, not my firm, from the few federal court cases we have on file until such time as my admission is cleared up.” He emphasized his commitment to his clients, stating, “I’m still attorney in charge in all the New York state cases and intend to file cases very soon in Nevada and California.”
As the legal proceedings against Combs continue, the focus remains on the allegations of sexual misconduct and the pursuit of justice for the accusers.