Donald J. Trump has been instructed to pay E. Jean Carroll $83.3 million, but the former president is gearing up for an appeal, deeming the jury’s decision as “Absolutely ridiculous!” While awaiting the appellate court’s decision, Trump is not immediately obligated to pay Carroll. However, financial responsibilities remain during this process.
Trump has the choice to remit the $83.3 million to the court, where the funds would be held temporarily – a similar approach to last year when he was directed to pay $5.5 million to Carroll in a related case. Another option for him is to pursue a bond, a financial instrument that involves a deposit, collateral, and entails interest and fees. Securing a bond also requires finding a financial institution willing to extend a substantial loan, a challenging task given his legal entanglements.
Despite Trump’s claims about his vast wealth, much of it is tied to property values, and he generally avoids substantial cash outlays. Throughout various legal battles, he has often utilized funds from his political action committee to cover legal expenses, steering clear of tapping into his personal fortune.
If the verdict withstands the appeals process, Carroll should eventually receive payment. Legal experts suggest that Trump has the financial means to cover the $83.3 million, with sufficient cash across various accounts. Despite his capacity to pay, Trump faces additional financial hurdles, as the New York attorney general seeks a $370 million penalty in a civil fraud trial. The trial’s outcome, expected in the coming weeks, could further impact Trump’s financial position and asset portfolio.