The Georgia Supreme Court vacated the state’s intermediate appeals court Wednesday on a ruling requiring GM CEO Mary Barra to testify by deposition in a Cobb County products liability case. 

But Justice Charlie Bethel wrote the opinion in such a way that offers comfort to both sides. The opinion’s wording seemed to set limits, blunting its effect. Bethel declined to give GM the shield it sought, ultimately affirming the discretion of trial judges.