This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Netflix chose to open 'Baby Reindeer' with the message, 'This is a true story.' That choice could influence the outcome of an ongoing legal case.

A judge has allowed a defamation lawsuit against Netflix's 'Baby Reindeer' to move forward. Fiona Harvey, who claims "Martha" is based on her, is suing for defamation. A judge says Netflix used untrue details, and should have known viewers would identify Harvey.

Netflix’s Baby Reindeer is a critic’s darling, having recently won six of eleven Emmy nominations, but its critical acclaim won’t protect its creators from legal battles.

The woman, Fiona Harvey, says that the hit Netflix show intentionally caused her emotional distress by falsely depicting her in several ways — including that she sexually assaulted and gouged the eyes of Richard Gadd, the show's creator. "Baby Reindeer" — a massive hit for Netflix — was first released in April.

It indicates an expandable section or menu, or sometimes previous / next navigation options. An icon in the shape of a person's head and shoulders. It often indicates a user profile. Netflix keeps getting sued over true-crime shows. It's thirsty for more. Jessica Gunning as Martha Scott in "Baby Reindeer." Netflix

New court documents have been released in the Baby Reindeer case. Fiona Harvey's legal team has pointed out significant differences between Richard Gadd's play and TV adaptation.