E. Jean Carroll Opposes Trump's Request for More Time to Pay Defamation Verdict
ICARO Media Group
In a defamation case against former President Donald Trump, E. Jean Carroll is challenging Trump's request for additional time to satisfy the $83.3 million judgment awarded to her. Carroll's lawyers argue that Trump is the "least trustworthy of borrowers" and oppose any extension or reduction in the payment amount.
Trump had asked the judge overseeing the case to grant him more time to appeal the jury verdict or allow him to post a reduced amount ranging from $24 million to $40 million. However, Carroll's legal team countered Trump's request, stating that he does not provide sufficient financial information or specify how Carroll could collect the amount owed.
Furthermore, Carroll's lawyers highlighted the risks associated with Trump's financial situation, including an $83.3 million judgment against him, a half billion-dollar judgment obtained by the New York Attorney General, and 91 felony charges that could affect his ability to fulfill future obligations.
The attorneys emphasized Trump's history of not paying lenders and attorneys, underscoring their lack of trust in his commitment to meet the judgment. Carroll's legal team also pointed out the impact that Trump's current legal troubles, including criminal indictments, could have on his ability to satisfy the defamation verdict.
The judge overseeing the case has given Trump's attorneys until Saturday to respond before making a decision. It is worth noting that the jury verdict was officially announced on February 8, granting Trump 30 days to appeal by posting a bond. Under the current schedule, he would need to post the bond in approximately two weeks.
However, Trump's financial condition has become more complicated since the verdict. In a separate civil fraud case brought by the New York attorney general, a $454 million judgment was recently entered against him. Trump offered to post $100 million in that case but was denied a motion for a stay by an appeals court judge.
Carroll's lawyers argue that it is not just Trump's current financial opacity that raises concerns but also the potential impact of his ongoing legal issues on his ability to fulfill the defamation judgment. They point out that if Trump is convicted of even a subset of the 91 felony charges, it could significantly complicate collection efforts. Additionally, the lawyers mention the potential negative effects on Trump's brand and the possibility of him becoming President of the United States or dealing with his estate in the future.
The $83.3 million award marks the second time Carroll has been granted millions of dollars in damages from Trump in the past year. Previously, a jury awarded her $5 million for sexual abuse and defamation after Trump denied her rape allegation, claiming she wasn't his type and suggesting she fabricated the story for book sales. This recent judgment aims to repair Carroll's reputation, compensate her, and penalize Trump for his defamatory statements.
As the judge awaits Trump's attorneys' response, the uncertainty surrounding Trump's financial situation and legal battles continues to cast doubt on his ability to satisfy the defamation verdict in a timely manner.