Former President Donald Trump, center, speaks to the media upon arriving at New York Supreme Court on Oct. 2, 2023, in New York. | Seth Wenig/AP PhotoNEW YORK — Former President Donald Trump arrived in court Monday to attend a civil trial in a lawsuit accusing him of extensive business fraud, entering the courtroom with a scowl on his face.
James herself also attended the trial Monday, sitting in the first row of spectators. Trump, wearing a navy suit and bright blue tie, walked directly in front of James as he entered the courtroom, but didn’t look at her or interact with her.Opening arguments were set to begin before Justice Arthur Engoron on Monday, the first day of the trial. There is no jury selection because the trial is a bench trial, meaning Engoron will resolve the case.
A smattering of protesters appeared outside the courthouse Monday, some of them chanting, “Trump lies all the time.”for Trump’s family business, finding Trump liable for widespread fraud and revoking the licenses for some of his flagship properties, including Trump Tower and the Trump International Hotel.
The ruling means the trial will focus in part on the punishments Trump will now face. They could be severe: Attorney General Tish James is asking for $250 million and a ban on Trump running businesses in the state. The trial beginning Monday will address what Trump, his businesses, his adult sons and his business associates did with that false information. According to James, they used it to commit insurance fraud, and to gain tax benefits.