Title: Judge Rejects Trump’s Request for Closing Argument in New York Civil Fraud Trial
Subtitle: Former President criticizes decision on his Truth Social platform
New York, USA – In a blow to former President Donald Trump, Judge Arthur Engoron has rejected his plan to deliver his own closing argument in his New York civil business fraud trial. The judge initially expressed openness to the idea but requested Trump to adhere to restrictions, including refraining from attacking his adversaries in the case or the court system.
However, Trump’s legal team objected to these limitations, arguing that they unfairly restricted his ability to present his case. When the judge did not receive a response from Trump’s lawyers, he assumed that the former president had declined the restrictions and consequently ruled out his involvement in the closing argument.
Promptly after hearing about the decision, Trump took to his Truth Social platform to criticize the judge’s ruling, labeling it “MEAN & NASTY.” This comes as the trial carries substantial implications for Trump, potentially resulting in severe financial penalties and a prohibition on conducting business in New York.
Trump has steadfastly maintained his innocence and denounced the case as a hoax and a political attack directed at him. The trial revolves around allegations of conspiracy, insurance fraud, and falsification of business records.
During the proceedings, Trump’s legal team had indicated to the judge that the former president planned to deliver a closing argument alongside his defense team’s arguments. However, the New York Attorney General’s office, represented by Letitia James, objected, contending that allowing Trump to deliver a closing argument would amount to unchallenged testimony.
In an email exchange, the judge tentatively approved Trump’s request but stipulated limitations on the content of his remarks. These limitations were contested by Trump’s lawyer, who argued that they were ambiguous and unjust. The judge ultimately denied the lawyer’s request to postpone closing arguments due to the recent death of Trump’s mother-in-law.
Serving as his own attorney carries inherent risks for any defendant, and the closing arguments provide a crucial opportunity to present their case. Engoron imposed a limited gag order on all trial participants after Trump made a derogatory social media post about the judge’s law clerk. Trump was explicitly warned by the judge that violating the gag order could result in his removal from the courtroom and a fine of at least $50,000.
Although Trump testified in November, he decided against taking the stand for a second round of testimony. As the trial nears its conclusion, both sides await the judge’s ruling on the allegations and the potential consequences for the former President.
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