New York, - The highly anticipated civil trial in which former president Donald Trump is accused of extensive business fraud has reached a pivotal point as testimony came to a close on Wednesday. However, a verdict in the $250 million lawsuit is not expected for at least another month.

After 11 weeks of proceedings, the trial wrapped up with the Attorney General Tish James' office presenting its final rebuttal witness, an accounting professor. Following this, the prosecution rested its case, marking a significant milestone in the legal proceedings. The trial will now take a month-long break, with closing arguments scheduled for January 11.

The outcome of this nonjury trial rests entirely in the hands of Justice Arthur Engoron, who had previously found Trump liable for widespread fraud and revoked the licenses for some of his flagship properties, including Trump Tower and the Trump International Hotel, in a pretrial ruling. This ruling has set the stage for the trial to determine the specific penalties Trump may face.

Attorney General Tish James is seeking a substantial $250 million financial penalty and a ban on Trump from running businesses in the state, among other measures. The trial will play a crucial role in determining the ramifications of Trump's alleged fraudulent activities.

Earlier in the week, it was anticipated that Trump himself would take the stand as the last witness in the defense case. However, he abruptly changed his course on Sunday evening, stating on social media that he didn't see the need to testify again after his previous successful testimony during the trial.

This sudden decision was also mirrored by his son Eric Trump, another defendant in the case, who had initially testified after being called as a witness by the prosecution but later canceled his planned testimony for the defense.

During the defense case, the only Trump family member to testify was Donald Trump Jr., who is also a defendant in the lawsuit. Their testimonies may play a vital role in influencing Justice Engoron's verdict.

Despite the conclusion of the testimony on Wednesday, a gag order remains in place, prohibiting Trump from making any comments about the judge's staff. Trump has requested permission to appeal the reinstatement of the gag order to the state's highest court, the Court of Appeals. The request is currently pending.

As the trial enters its next phase with a month-long hiatus, the eyes of the nation are fixed on the courtroom, eagerly awaiting Justice Engoron's verdict on the allegations of fraud against former President Donald Trump. The trial's outcome could have far-reaching implications on how Trump's business dealings are regulated in New York State.