Trump’s Civil Fraud Trial Proceeds as New York Appeals Court Rejects Delay

New York appeals court rejects former President Donald Trump’s bid to delay a civil fraud trial, allowing the trial to begin next Monday. Trump and his adult children are expected to be called as witnesses in the case. This decision puts his business empire in jeopardy as New York Attorney General Letitia James accuses Trump, his two adult sons, and the Trump Organization of inflating property values to suit business needs. Although Trump’s legal team argues against committing fraud, the appeals court ruling ensures that the trial will proceed as scheduled on October 2nd. It will be decided by Judge Engoron, who has estimated a three-month trial duration. This development narrows the focus to six remaining fraud claims and determining penalties, with James seeking a $250m fine and a ban on Trump doing business in his home state. The trial will feature Trump, Eric Trump, Don Jr., and Ivanka as possible witnesses, among others.