A panel of New York appeals court judges appeared skeptical about a massive $454 million civil fraud verdict handed down against Donald Trump. found liable for business fraud – One jurist has called it “disturbing”.
The former president is attempting to overturn or reduce the $354 million judgment — plus an additional $100 million in interest — after a judge sided with New York Attorney General Letitia James, who argued in a lawsuit that Trump To be better, he has increased his net worth to billions. Loan and insurance terms.
Trump's lawyers, who have called Judge Arthur Engoron's February ruling “draconian, unlawful and unconstitutional,” appeared before a five-judge panel in Manhattan appeals court on Thursday to plead their case.
Some judges appeared ready to change the bond.
Judge Peter Moulton questioned whether James' trial “turned into something it didn't have to do.”
“The hefty fine in this case is disturbing,” Moulton said.
Trump's attorney D. John Sawyer argued that James' lawsuit exceeds New York consumer protection laws. Sawyer claimed that there were “no victims” and “no complaints” from lenders and insurers regarding Trump's businesses.
The attorney claimed the case is “a clear violation of the statute of limitations,” noting the transactions used in the non-jury trial.
He warned that “people cannot trade in real estate with confidence” if the decision was not overturned.
Trump, who has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing since James first filed suit against him, was not in attendance.
Angoron The ruling ruled that Trump, his company and top executives, including sons Eric and Don Jr. Banks were defrauded by increasing Trump's wealth On financial statements – allowing them to obtain favorable loans which they used to make profits.
Trump's legal team said the initial requested bond was “unprecedented for a private company” and Posting the full amount was a “practical impossibility”.
In a brief submitted to the Appellate Division – the mid-level state appeals court – in July, Trump's lawyers argued that the financial statements he submitted to banks actually understated his assets, and there was no indication that Whether any lender was harmed financially.
His legal team has also claimed that James' lawsuit against Trump was politically motivated.
The Appellate Division typically rules about a month after arguments end — meaning a final decision could come before Election Day on Nov. 5.
Three of the five justices hearing arguments Thursday would have to agree to change the outcome.
If the court rules against Trump, the former president could appeal to New York's highest court and potentially the Supreme Court — though that would mean a final decision wouldn't come until 2026.
The former commander in chief has vowed to fight the case “all the way to the US Supreme Court if necessary.”
with post wire
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