Defamation has always been an exception to free speech. It is also not a criminal offense so the government doesn't have the ability to use it for censorship.

Defamation has always been an exception to free speech. It is also not a criminal offense so the government doesn't have the ability to use it for censorship. Cox is still free to write what she wants without repercussions from the government. Being a civil case all the plaintiff had to do was prove the defendant maliciously inflicted significant harm to his reputation in order to be awarded a monetary judgement.