Prosecutor Andrew Amer, however, countered this assertion by presenting a slew of emails in which Eric Trump was solicited for information about Trump’s properties, crucial for the annual financial statements that are central to the case. Despite this, Eric Trump continued to downplay his involvement and claimed he only became aware of his father’s statements of financial condition when the case unfolded.
Tensions Rise Over Principal Law Clerk and Allegations of Bias
The courtroom was not short of theatrics during this legal spectacle, with tempers flaring over allegations of bias related to Justice Engoron’s principal law clerk. Trump’s attorney, Chris Kise, argued that the clerk, who frequently communicated with the judge, displayed bias against the defense. The judge had previously imposed a gag order following criticisms by former President Trump on social media. Despite the gag order, Trump’s side has been fined twice, totaling $15,000.
Kise insisted on being allowed to make a record of instances where they believed the clerk provided counsel to the judge adverse to their case. Justice Engoron defended the role of his law clerk, emphasizing his right to receive advice and expressed concern about the safety of his staff.
