Five Times Dr. Phil Was Sued By His Former TV Guests

Hannah Archuleta, a 17-year-old from Colorado, appeared on the "Dr. Phil" show in October 2019 alongside her parents to discuss her struggles with suicidal ideation. Dr. Phil's solution? Send her to Turn-About Ranch, a therapeutic boarding facility for "troubled" teens. 

Sadly, Archuleta claims that she was sexually assaulted by an employee on two separate occasions while receiving treatment at the program. She went on to sue Dr. Phil for negligence. "Dr. Phil said that, 'Hannah needs to go to the Ranch to have any chance at a good life,'" the lawsuit stated, according to documents obtained by Rolling Stone. But that's not all. The complaint also maintains that he accused Archuleta's father of "wimping out" when he resisted the action plan.

It should be noted, however, that Archuleta's suit against Dr. Phil was ultimately dismissed in August 2022. In turn, Dr. Phil and CBS countersued Archuleta for a whopping $400,000 in legal fees. "In our judgment, she reached the right result," attorney Charles L. Babcock told the Los Angeles Times. "We will be seeking our fees and whatever else the judge sees fit to award us under the statute."

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org

If you or anyone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, help is available. Visit the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network website or contact RAINN's National Helpline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).

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