The rapper faces a significant legal setback as her attorney withdraws ahead of a high-stakes court battle.

A major attorney exit

November 14, 2025: Nicki Minaj has experienced another legal blow — her longtime attorney, Judd Burstein, has officially stepped away from representing her in a looming defamation case. The lawsuit, brought by a former fan seeking $10 million in damages, has reached a critical point as Minaj prepares to secure new counsel.

What triggered the breakup

The split occurred after Burstein successfully defended Minaj in New Jersey, where the original lawsuit was dismissed. However, when the plaintiff re-filed the case in New York, Burstein declined to continue representation, citing the circumstances as inappropriate to discuss publicly. The timing has left the plaintiff’s motion fully in motion and Minaj scrambling to onboard fresh legal support.

The defamation suit at a glance

The case stems from a 2024 live broadcast, during which the plaintiff alleges Minaj made disparaging and humiliating remarks. His claim centers on emotional distress and reputational harm arising from the alleged public comments. The lawsuit was initially dismissed, but re-filing in New York brought the matter back into the spotlight. With Minaj’s legal team now in flux, the risk and visibility of the case have both risen.

Implications for the rapper and her career

Losing a long-term legal ally during a high-profile lawsuit could present financial and strategic complications for Minaj. Legal experts note that forcing a change in counsel at this stage often leads to delays, increased costs, and potential disadvantages in court scheduling. Fans and industry insiders alike are watching closely as Minaj’s legal team adjusts to the unexpected change.

What comes next

Minaj’s camp has officially requested a stay of proceedings to allow time for retention of new counsel and proper case review. The court has yet to rule on the request, meaning the upcoming stages of the lawsuit remain uncertain. As the timeline moves ahead, all eyes are on Minaj’s next move — both legally and in the public sphere.