All smoke and mirrors?
Credit: Getty Images
Donald Trump is accused of falsely inflating the value of his business empire and his net worth by several billion dollars...
The best of everything
Credit: Getty Images
...in order to obtain better commercial contracts, better financial loans and better interest rates, among other things.
Damning details
Credit: Getty Images
The details of these charges are damning, as he is accused of persistent and repeated fraud, falsification of business records, conspiracy to falsify business records...
Fraud?
Credit: Getty Images
...publication of false financial statements, conspiracy to falsify financial statements, insurance fraud and conspiracy to commit insurance fraud.
Cameras
Credit: Getty Images
Cameras were briefly allowed into the room before the court proceedings began, as Trump sat with his lawyers.
"Not the real world."
Credit: Getty Images
The judge has already ruled in the majority of this case that Trump overvalued his businesses and properties for fraudulent financial gain, and said, "It's a fantasy world... not the real world."
Harsh words
Credit: Getty Images
Certainly harsh words about the management of Trump's businesses by Donald Trump and his sons.
Good for his campaign?
Credit: Getty Images
Trump, who was not required to be present at the opening of this civil trial, is banking on the publicity it will bring him for his presidential campaign.
Letitia James
Credit: Getty Images
New York Attorney General Letitia James' pre-trial message is clear: "My message is simple. No matter how powerful you are, no matter how much money you think you have, no one is above the law."
250M$
Credit: Getty Images
The attorney general in the case is seeking $250 million in damages, banishment from serving as officers of a New York company and a five-year ban on business transactions, which would put an end to the Trump Organization.
Trump Organization
Credit: Getty Images
The Trump Organization has developed and managed a wide range of real estate properties, including luxury condominiums, office buildings, hotels and resorts.
Mar-a-Lago
Credit: Getty Images
Some of the most famous properties include Trump Tower in New York and the Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida.
Operations
Credit: Getty Images
The organization has operated hotels and resorts under the Trump brand in various locations around the world. These properties are often associated with luxury and upscale accommodations
President or CEO?
Credit: Getty Images
Donald Trump was the face of the organization for many years, but stepped away from day-to-day operations while President of the United States.
The next generation
Credit: Getty Images
His children, in particular Donald Trump Jr., Eric Trump and Ivanka Trump, have played an important role in running the company.
The sons
Credit: Getty Images
Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump are also targeted in this fraud trial, while Ivanka Trump was cleared of all charges earlier this year.
Until December 22
Credit: Getty Images
The former President of the United States is expected to testify in his defense next week, when the trial is expected to last until December 22. Stay tuned!