NEW YORK, New York – Former President Donald Trump faced significant developments in two major legal cases on Monday. These cases involve a civil fraud trial and a criminal hush money trial. Let’s take a closer look at each case to understand the latest developments.
In the hush money case, Trump is accused of falsifying business records related to reimbursements made to his former lawyer, Michael Cohen. These payments were allegedly used to cover up an alleged affair with adult film star Stormy Daniels prior to the 2016 election. The former president has pleaded not guilty and denied the affair.
During a hearing in New York on Monday, Judge Juan Merchan announced that the criminal trial against Trump will commence on April 15, starting with the jury selection process. The judge also dismissed Trump’s motion to dismiss the indictment or delay the trial.
Meanwhile, in the civil fraud case, a New York appeals court has ordered Trump to pay a $175 million bond as he appeals the judgment against him. This judgment stems from a lawsuit that found Trump, along with his company and adult sons, fraudulently inflated the value of his assets. The former president has also been granted an additional 10 days to post the bond.
The ruling provides a temporary lifeline for Trump, as it prevents the New York Attorney General from seizing his property to enforce the judgment. Attorney General Letitia James had sought to collect over $464 million from Trump and his co-defendants.
These legal developments mark crucial milestones for the former president’s legal battles. The hush money trial will showcase evidence and testimonies related to the alleged affair and payment cover-up. On the other hand, the civil fraud case highlights the financial implications and potential consequences for Trump’s assets.
These cases will continue to unfold in the coming weeks, shedding light on Trump’s legal challenges. As the trials proceed, both sides will present their arguments, witnesses, and evidence. The outcomes of these cases could have significant implications for Trump’s reputation and legal standing.