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Trump must pay millions to New York: request to dismiss civil case rejected

New York Prosecutor’s Office decision. Attorney general’s office does not grant president-elect’s request: real estate fraud case continues

The New York attorney general’s office has rejected the motion to dismiss filed by the lawyers of Donald Trump, now president-elect. Deputy Attorney General Judith Vale emphasised in a letter that the civil case against Trump does not impede his institutional duties and does not violate the US Constitution.

The case and the convictions

Last February, Judge Arthur Engoron had sentenced Trump and his adult sons, at the head of the Trump Organisation, to pay USD 355 million, plus interest. The sentence was based on charges of systematic fraud, whereby real estate values were allegedly manipulated to obtain favourable tax benefits and bank loans.

In March, an appeal had led to a reduction of the sum to USD 175 million. A further appeal was also lodged against this figure, which is now before the court of appeal.

Trump’s legal strategy

After his election victory, lawyer John Sauer, Trump’s choice as future solicitor-general, had asked for this civil case to be dismissed, relying on the dismissals already obtained in the federal criminal trials and the probable closure of the criminal trial in New York linked to the Stormy Daniels affair. However, the prosecution reiterated that the civil nature of the proceedings makes it independent of any developments in the criminal field.

Next developments

While the appeal court’s decision on the latest appeal is awaited, the civil proceedings remain a thorn in Trump’s side. This case represents one of the many legal battles the president-elect will face, even as he prepares to re-enter the White House.

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