Judge allows California claims to proceed in Steven Tyler abuse lawsuit, dismisses other states, says trial will not be delayed this spring.
A Los Angeles judge has decided that parts of a lawsuit accusing Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler of sexual abuse can move forward — but only those tied to California.
The ruling trims the case while keeping its core claims on track for trial.
Los Angeles County Judge Patricia A. Young dismissed allegations connected to Oregon, Washington and Massachusetts. She cited differences in age-of-consent laws at the time and limits on how long someone has to file a case.
By doing so, the judge signaled that those claims cannot be refiled. Still, she made clear that the California-based allegations remain active and that the trial schedule will not change.
The lawsuit was filed by Julia Holcomb, who now goes by Julia Misley after marrying. She alleges that Tyler, who was 25 at the time, began a sexual relationship with her in the early 1970s when she was a high school sophomore.
According to court filings, they first met backstage in Portland. She further alleges they had sex the following night in Seattle. In both places, the age of consent at the time was 18.
From the bench, Judge Young said she has “clearly signaled” how she intends to rule and emphasized, “I’m not moving the trial.” A written decision is expected soon, which could further clarify the legal path ahead.
Tyler’s attorneys viewed the dismissal of several claims as a partial victory. Meanwhile, Misley’s legal team can continue to pursue the California allegations, which now form the heart of the case.
The decision highlights how state laws and timelines can shape abuse cases decades later.
For now, both sides are preparing for the next phase, as the court focuses on what can be argued before a California jury.
PHOTO CREDIT: Via Steven Tyler/Instagram, @justinmcconney
