David Irving was involved in several legal proceedings in Germany, most notably a libel case against Deborah Lipstadt and a subsequent legal battle concerning his views on the Holocaust. These cases significantly impacted his professional life and resulted in legal judgments against him. The cases highlight the legal ramifications of expressing Holocaust denial in Germany, where it is illegal.
Irving's legal troubles in Germany stemmed from his published works and public statements denying or minimizing the scale and systematic nature of the Holocaust. The most significant case involved a libel suit brought against him by Deborah Lipstadt and Penguin Books. The legal proceedings attracted considerable international attention and were dramatized in the film Denial. Later, Irving faced further legal action related to speeches and writings deemed to violate German laws against Holocaust denial.
* 2015 (Denial Screenplay): A courtroom scene depicts Irving addressing a judge, claiming he has repeatedly drawn attention to aspects of the Holocaust, and accusing Lipstadt of causing damage to his professional existence. ([denial_screenplay_2015]) * 2015 (Denial Screenplay): News reports cover the verdict, stating Irving was called an "anti-Semite, a racist and a distorter of history." ([denial_screenplay_2015]) * 2016 (Denial Screenplay): A film was made about the case, which Irving considered a "really bad" and discrediting portrayal. ([diary_2017_oct_nov]) * 2019 (Diary): Irving discusses a legal dilemma related to a dispute over property and his expression of opinions about Auschwitz, suggesting judges disregarded contract law. ([diary_2019_jan_may]) * 2021 (Diary): Irving comments on a US trial, contrasting the tactics used by "house managers" with what he believes would be unacceptable in English courts. ([diary_2021])
Initially, the focus was on the Lipstadt libel case and its aftermath. Later entries in Irving’s diaries reflect ongoing legal challenges, including disputes over property and enforcement actions, indicating a continued pattern of legal issues related to his views and actions. The tone shifts from describing the initial court case to expressing frustration with ongoing legal battles and perceived unfairness in the legal system.
* Deborah Lipstadt * Denial (film) * Holocaust denial * Anthony Julius