The ruling, which was delivered by Manhattan Judge Arthur Engoron on February 16th, accuses Trump of lying about his wealth to banks, insurers, and others. Trump's lawyers argue that Engoron's findings were "erroneous" and "egregious."

In a 116-page filing submitted to the Appellate Division of the state's trial court, Trump's legal team echoed the grievances presented during the trial, claiming that New York Attorney General Letitia James' lawsuit should have been dismissed, that some allegations fall outside the statute of limitations, and that no harm was caused by Trump's alleged fraud. Additionally, they argue that James' involvement in private business transactions poses a threat to New York's business environment.

Trump's lawyers further argue that upholding Engoron's decision would grant James limitless power to target her political opponents. Engoron had previously rejected similar objections during the trial, equating them to the plot of the film "Groundhog Day" and imposing fines on Trump's legal team for repetitive and frivolous arguments. The Appellate Division has already denied Trump's previous attempt to end the case based on statute of limitations and other grounds.

To halt the collection of the judgment and prevent the seizure of his assets, Trump posted a $175 million bond in April. If successful in his appeal, Trump will not have to pay any amount to the state of New York and will be refunded the bond he posted.

Trump's lawyer, Christopher Kise, labeled Engoron's decisions as "legally bereft" and "untethered to the law or to commercial reality." He condemned the judgment as "draconian, unlawful, and unconstitutional," emphasizing that a complete reversal is necessary to restore public confidence in the integrity of the New York judicial system.

The Appellate Division has scheduled oral arguments for late September. This filing marks the latest development in a series of legal battles for Trump, who recently accepted the Republican party's presidential nomination. Trump has also faced delays in his Washington election interference case due to the Supreme Court's ruling granting ex-presidents immunity from criminal prosecution for official acts while in office. Additionally, his New York hush money criminal case sentencing has been postponed until September 18th.

In Engoron's civil fraud case ruling, Trump, his company, and top executives, including his sons Eric and Donald Trump Jr., were found to have engaged in a years-long scheme to inflate Trump's wealth on financial statements. Engoron's ruling includes a $355 million penalty, but with interest, the total has grown to over $470 million. The amount is increasing by nearly $112,000 per day until paid, unless overturned. If Trump fails to pay, there is a possibility of asset seizure.

James' office responded to Trump's appeal, dismissing his arguments as unfounded while expressing confidence in their victory on appeal. Trump's appeal ensures that the legal battle over his business practices will continue into the fall and potentially beyond. In the meantime, the outcome of the appeal will determine the fate of a large portion of Trump's fortune.