New York, NY – E. Jean Carroll’s lawyer has dismissed President Trump’s attempt to evade an $83.3 million ruling against him in a new court filing. Carroll, a writer and columnist, accused Trump of sexually assaulting her in a Manhattan department store in the 1990s. The judge has issued a ruling stating that Trump must provide a DNA sample for testing to determine whether it matches the dress Carroll claims she wore at the time of the incident. Trump’s lawyers have appealed the ruling, arguing that he is immune from defamation lawsuits filed by private individuals while serving as president.
Carroll’s attorney, Roberta Kaplan, responded to Trump’s efforts, saying they were just another attempt by him to avoid accountability. She criticized Trump’s claim of presidential immunity and argued that it should not apply to matters unrelated to his official duties. Kaplan further stated that she was confident in the validity of Carroll’s claims and believed the DNA sample would provide further evidence to support her client’s case.
This latest development comes as part of a larger legal battle between Carroll and Trump. In 2019, Carroll filed a defamation lawsuit against Trump after he denied her allegations and accused her of lying to sell her book. The judge’s ruling in favor of allowing the DNA sample could potentially strengthen Carroll’s case and undermine Trump’s credibility.
Trump’s legal team has attempted to delay or dismiss the case on various grounds, including arguing that Carroll’s account was politically motivated and that presidents are immune from defamation lawsuits while in office. However, the judge has consistently ruled against these arguments, allowing the case to proceed. Trump’s appeal of the DNA sample ruling will likely further prolong the legal proceedings.
The outcome of this case could have significant implications for future lawsuits against sitting presidents. If the ruling stands, it could establish a precedent that presidents can be held accountable for alleged misconduct committed prior to taking office. It could also weaken the argument for presidential immunity in civil cases unrelated to official duties.
Carroll’s allegations against Trump gained widespread attention and sparked a larger conversation about the #MeToo movement and the accountability of powerful individuals. As the legal battle continues, both sides are prepared to confront the consequences of their actions and their implications for the future of the presidency.