E. Jean Carroll $83.3M Defamation Award Against Trump Upheld by Appeals Court

A federal appeals court has upheld the $83.3 million jury award granted to writer E. Jean Carroll against former President Donald Trump. The decision came after Trump’s legal team sought to overturn the ruling, arguing the damages were excessive and that he should be shielded by presidential immunity.

Carroll, a longtime columnist, first accused Trump of sexual assault in the 1990s. In 2023, a jury found him liable for sexual abuse and defamation. In January 2024, Carroll won the $83.3 million verdict after Trump continued to attack her character during his presidency.

Court Says Damages Were Reasonable

The three-judge panel ruled that the award was justified. The judges stated that the damages were not excessive given the “extraordinary and egregious facts” in the case. According to Reuters, the court emphasized that the trial and evidence were properly handled and that Carroll’s claims had been validated by the jury.

Trump’s lawyers argued the payout was politically motivated and legally flawed. They also maintained that his statements were part of his role as president and therefore protected. The panel rejected that argument, saying no immunity covered the false and damaging remarks.

This ruling adds to Trump’s legal challenges. It follows a separate $5 million verdict in another Carroll case that was also upheld earlier this year. Trump’s team signaled plans to appeal again, possibly taking the case to the Supreme Court.

Impact on Trump and Carroll

The decision strengthens Carroll’s legal victories. It also underscores how the courts have viewed Trump’s repeated public denials as damaging to her reputation. For Carroll, it is the second time she has won against Trump in a courtroom battle.

For Trump, the ruling arrives during a politically charged period. He continues to face multiple legal battles while campaigning for the 2024 election. His team has framed the lawsuits as part of what they call a “witch hunt,” claiming political bias.

The Carroll case highlights how defamation law can hold powerful figures accountable when false claims harm reputations. It also reflects ongoing debates over presidential immunity and free speech.

The court’s ruling is another major legal setback for Trump. It also marks a key victory for E. Jean Carroll, who fought for years to defend her name.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who is E. Jean Carroll?

E. Jean Carroll is a writer and advice columnist. She accused Donald Trump of sexually assaulting her in the 1990s. She later sued him for defamation.

Q2: How much money was awarded to Carroll?

A jury awarded her $83.3 million in January 2024. The amount was upheld by the appeals court in September 2025.

Q3: What was Trump found liable for?

Trump was found liable for sexual abuse and for defaming Carroll. He denied her allegations publicly and was judged to have harmed her reputation.

Q4: Can Trump appeal again?

Yes. His legal team has indicated plans to take the case to the Supreme Court. They argue damages are excessive and claim presidential immunity.

Q5: Why is this ruling important?

The ruling shows courts can hold powerful leaders accountable for defamatory speech. It also clarifies limits on presidential immunity in civil cases.