Trump Faces Civil Trial Over 1990s Assault Allegation
Carroll Claims Attack in Manhattan Department Store
E Jean Carroll accuses Donald Trump of sexually assaulting her in a Manhattan department store back in 1995 or 1996. Trump denies the claims, branding them a “complete con job.” The civil trial—no criminal charges—could drag on for up to two weeks.
New York’s Adult Survivors Act Opens Legal Window
Carroll filed her lawsuit right after New York’s Adult Survivors Act was passed in 2022. This law gives victims a one-year window to sue for old sexual assault cases that would have been blocked by time limits.
Both criminal and civil statute of limitations had expired long ago. Typically, civil claims in New York must be made within three years after the assault, which for Carroll’s case had long passed.
LinkedIn Co-Founder Funds Carroll’s Legal Battle
Carroll’s legal fees are partly covered by Reid Hoffman, LinkedIn co-founder and Democratic donor. Trump’s legal team tried to postpone the trial after discovering Hoffman’s support, arguing it taints Carroll’s motives. The judge swiftly rejected that bid.
