Suing celebrities for money seems to be the new black nowadays. If the allegations are true or not has little importance, because the tabloid will cover the story and the trial irrespective of the outcome.

As the saying goes, all publicity is good publicity – and if someone makes some money out of it, the better. Tabloids love “fresh meat” and can hardly wait to pounce on their next super-star victims. In a sense, everybody wins – the star, tabloids and plaintiff get publicity, while the latter two can also make quite a bit of money.

Paparazzi are famous for suing stars, charging them with assault charges. It’s quite easy to understand why some stars are frustrated by the paps. Except for the notoriety they bring, they can also intrude on your most special, private moments. Many people have made millions by selling pictures of celebrities’ supposedly private weddings, their fiercely shielded children (who can forget Jack Nicholson fiercely warning the paparazzi about blinding his child with the flashes) or of a romantic getaway with a secret lover.

The latest trial in Hollywood involves Alison Silva, paparazzi, and one of the quietest and most reserved Hollywood actors, “Matrix’s” Keanu Reeves. Silva accused the movie star of purposely hitting him with his Porsche in 2007, and asked for over $700,000 in damages.

Reeves was casual at the hearing, seeming almost amused by the situation. He said that he started his car and was moving forward, when Silva, who was still standing in front of his car, fell down tripping over his own feet. The defense showed a video of Silva jumping over a fence, using his hands in the process, which proved that his wrist injury was non-existent. The jury gave a verdict in favor of Keanu Reeves, in light of the case in point evidence.