Ricky Martin Lawsuit 2026, Case Settled, No Trial After Sexual Abuse Claims Dismissed
The Ricky Martin lawsuit ended in April 2025 when both the singer and his nephew voluntarily dismissed all claims. After nearly three years of legal disputes involving sexual abuse allegations, extortion counterclaims, and harassment accusations, Judge Arnaldo Castro Callejo approved the dismissal without awarding costs to either party.
This resolution closes a high-profile case that began in July 2022 when Martin’s nephew filed domestic abuse allegations. The singer countersued for $20 million in September 2022, claiming the false accusations destroyed his reputation and cost him multimillion-dollar contracts.
What the Ricky Martin Lawsuit Involved
The legal battle centered on allegations Dennis Yadiel Sanchez made against his uncle in July 2022. Sanchez filed a restraining order claiming Martin sexually abused him during a seven-month relationship.
Martin vehemently denied the accusations. His legal team called them “completely false and fabricated.”
Within weeks, Sanchez voluntarily withdrew his case. According to court documents, he admitted under oath that Martin never sexually assaulted him. The Puerto Rico court dismissed the restraining order with Sanchez confirming his decision was made without outside pressure.
But that wasn’t the end. Martin filed his own lawsuit in September 2022 in San Juan Superior Court, seeking $20 million in damages for extortion, malicious prosecution, and abuse of rights.
The Allegations and Counterclaims
Martin’s lawsuit painted a disturbing picture of ongoing harassment. Court filings claimed Sanchez sent up to 10 Instagram messages daily between October 2021 and January 2022, threatening to “assassinate his reputation and integrity” unless Martin paid him money.
The lawsuit alleged Sanchez created unauthorized social media pages for Martin’s minor children and publicly posted the singer’s phone number as retaliation. Martin’s attorneys argued these actions constituted a calculated extortion scheme by a “maladjusted person” seeking financial gain.
Martin claimed the false allegations cost him at least $10 million in canceled contracts and future earnings. He also stated he no longer felt safe in Puerto Rico due to the accusations.
In May 2023, Sanchez filed a $10 million counterclaim, again accusing Martin of non-consensual behavior. Martin’s legal team called these renewed allegations “offensive” and completely unfounded.
How the Case Was Resolved
On April 7, 2025, both parties jointly requested the court dismiss all claims and counterclaims. Judge Castro Callejo granted the motion, ending the litigation without awarding attorney fees or costs to either side.
The settlement terms remain confidential. Neither party publicly disclosed whether any financial exchange occurred or what prompted the mutual dismissal.
This type of settlement is common in high-stakes litigation where both parties want to avoid further public scrutiny and legal expenses. Similar outcomes occurred in the Apple Lawsuit Settlement 2026, $95M Siri Privacy Payouts Already Sent case, where parties resolved disputes to avoid prolonged litigation.
Martin has remained largely quiet about the resolution. His focus has shifted back to his music career, including his recent Super Bowl halftime show performance alongside Bad Bunny and Lady Gaga.
Common Misconceptions About This Case
Many people mistakenly believe this lawsuit is still ongoing. As of February 2026, the case is completely closed with all claims dismissed.
Another misconception is that settlements indicate guilt. Legal settlements do not constitute admissions of wrongdoing by either party. Courts frequently approve dismissals where both sides agree to walk away without adjudicating the underlying claims.
What This Case Reveals About Celebrity Litigation
High-profile lawsuits involving public figures often settle before trial. The reputational damage from prolonged litigation can exceed the financial costs.
Martin’s case demonstrates how false allegations can impact careers even when quickly retracted. His legal team documented millions in lost endorsement deals and canceled projects stemming from the initial July 2022 restraining order.
Where the Case Stands Now
The Ricky Martin lawsuit is permanently closed. The April 2025 dismissal order is final, and no appeals were filed by either party.
No further court proceedings are scheduled. The settlement resolves all legal disputes between Martin and his nephew related to the 2022 allegations.
How to Access Court Records
Court documents from this case remain public record. You can access filings through the Puerto Rico court system’s online docket search using case details from the U.S. District Court for the District of Puerto Rico.
However, settlement terms negotiated by the parties are typically sealed and not publicly available unless specifically disclosed.
What Similar Cases Show
Understanding how settlements work matters if you’re involved in legal disputes. The 23andMe $50M Class Action Lawsuit Settlement shows how major corporations also settle claims without admitting liability.
Whether you’re facing defamation, harassment, or other legal issues, consulting with an experienced attorney before filing or responding to lawsuits is critical.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ricky Martin lawsuit about?
The lawsuit involved sexual abuse allegations Martin’s nephew filed in July 2022, which were quickly withdrawn. Martin then sued his nephew for $20 million, claiming extortion and defamation. Both parties dismissed all claims in April 2025.
When was this lawsuit filed?
Sanchez filed the initial restraining order in July 2022. Martin filed his countersuit in September 2022. The case was dismissed in April 2025.
Who was involved in this lawsuit?
Ricky Martin (plaintiff in the main lawsuit) sued his nephew Dennis Yadiel Sanchez Martin (defendant). Sanchez had originally filed domestic abuse allegations against his uncle before withdrawing them.
What were the main allegations?
Sanchez initially claimed sexual abuse and a seven-month relationship with Martin. Martin’s lawsuit alleged extortion, malicious prosecution, harassment via social media, and threats to destroy his reputation unless paid money.
What is the current status of this case?
The case is closed. On April 7, 2025, a Puerto Rico judge approved the voluntary dismissal of all claims and counterclaims. No trial occurred and no further litigation is pending.
What are the next steps in this litigation?
There are no next steps. The dismissal is final and both parties agreed not to pursue further legal action related to these allegations.
How can I stay updated on this case?
The case is concluded with no ongoing proceedings. For information on other celebrity lawsuits or legal settlements, visit legal news websites or check court dockets through official court systems.
Last Updated: February 9, 2026
Disclaimer: This article provides general legal information about the Ricky Martin lawsuit and is not legal advice. For specific legal guidance, consult a qualified attorney.
Have questions about other high-profile lawsuits? Check our coverage of current class action lawsuit settlements for the latest legal developments.
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About the Author
Sarah Klein, JD, is a licensed attorney and legal content strategist with over 12 years of experience across civil, criminal, family, and regulatory law. At All About Lawyer, she covers a wide range of legal topics — from high-profile lawsuits and courtroom stories to state traffic laws and everyday legal questions — all with a focus on accuracy, clarity, and public understanding.
Her writing blends real legal insight with plain-English explanations, helping readers stay informed and legally aware.
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