Donald Trump has officially appealed a $454 million New York civil fraud judgment after a judge found that he lied about his wealth to deceive banks and insurers. The appeal was filed by Trump's lawyers on Monday, challenging Judge Arthur Engoron's verdict in a lawsuit brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James.
Engoron's ruling imposed strict limitations on Trump's company, the Trump Organization, and ordered Trump to pay $355 million in penalties, with the total growing to nearly $454 million with interest. If Trump fails to pay, James has stated that she will seek to seize some of his assets.
Trump has criticized the trial as "election interference" and has accused Engoron of bias. His lawyers have argued that the lawsuit is based on a consumer protection statute that is not applicable to his business practices.
This appeal is just one of many legal challenges facing Trump, who has been indicted on criminal charges multiple times in the past year. He is scheduled to go on trial next month in Manhattan for falsifying business records related to hush money paid to Stormy Daniels. Additionally, Trump has been ordered to pay $83.3 million to writer E. Jean Carroll for defamation.
Despite Trump's ongoing legal battles, he is actively seeking the Republican presidential nomination for the 2024 election. The outcome of this appeal could have significant implications for his financial situation and political future. If unsuccessful at the Appellate Division, Trump may have the option to appeal to the state's highest court, the Court of Appeals.