In a significant development in the ongoing defamation case involving former President Donald Trump and columnist E. Jean Carroll, Judge Lewis Kaplan has declined to grant a stay of the $83.3 million judgment against Trump. The decision comes amidst Trump’s efforts to delay the judgment or post a bond for a fraction of the total damages.
Judge Kaplan’s order, filed on Sunday morning, stated that he would not grant any stay without first allowing Carroll a meaningful opportunity to respond. Kaplan set a deadline for Carroll’s written response by Thursday, with Trump’s reply due by March 2.
Trump’s lawyer, Alina Habba, had requested a temporary delay of the judgment or permission for Trump to post a reduced bond until after the resolution of post-trial motions filed in early March. Habba argued that there was a strong probability that these motions would substantially reduce or eliminate the amount of the judgment.
However, Judge Kaplan’s decision indicates that he is not inclined to grant a stay without further consideration of Carroll’s position. Trump’s legal team had also challenged the severity and duration of the emotional distress suffered by Carroll, alleging that she failed to provide sufficient evidence of its impact.
Carroll, who accused Trump of defamation after he denied her allegations of sexual assault, described living in a state of fear following Trump’s statements. The defamation case has garnered significant attention and is part of a broader legal battle involving Trump’s conduct both during and after his presidency.
As the case continues to unfold, with both sides presenting their arguments before the court, the outcome remains uncertain. Judge Kaplan’s decision not to grant a stay underscores the importance of due process and ensuring that both parties have a fair opportunity to present their case.
