Rudy Giuliani Testifies in Contempt Hearing Over Asset Disclosure
Giuliani Complains about Short Deadline
Rudy Giuliani testified on Friday at a contempt hearing to determine whether he has dodged and deceived lawyers trying to recover a $148 million judgment for two Georgia election workers. Giuliani expressed frustration about the two-week deadline he was given to turn over information about his assets, comparing it to the longer timeframes he was given in 15 to 20 other court cases he’s involved in.
Judge May Not Rule Immediately
Judge Lewis J. Liman indicated that he would not rule immediately on whether Giuliani will face civil sanctions for failing to turn over some assets.
Giuliani’s Request for Remote Testimony Denied
Giuliani had initially asked to testify remotely at the hearing, but changed his mind after Judge Liman warned that his options would be limited if he did not appear in person.
Claims of “Willful Defiance” of Court Orders
Lawyers for the Georgia election workers claim that Giuliani has displayed a "consistent pattern of willful defiance" of Liman’s October order to give up assets. They assert that Giuliani has turned over some assets, such as a Mercedes-Benz and his New York apartment, but has failed to surrender other valuable items, including sports memorabilia and watches.
Legal Battle Over Disposition of Assets
The court has scheduled a trial for mid-January to determine the disposition of Giuliani’s Palm Beach condominium and World Series rings. Giuliani has maintained that the Palm Beach property is his personal residence and should be shielded from the judgment.
Conclusion
The contempt hearing has highlighted Giuliani’s ongoing legal battle over asset disclosure. As the case moves forward, Giuliani’s lawyers are predicting that he will eventually win custody of the disputed items on appeal.
FAQs
Q: Why is Rudy Giuliani being sued for $148 million?
A: Giuliani is being sued by two Georgia election workers whom he falsely accused of election fraud during the 2020 presidential election.
Q: What are the disputed assets?
A: The disputed assets include Giuliani’s Palm Beach condominium, World Series rings, and other valuable items, including sports memorabilia and watches.
Q: Why did Giuliani’s lawyers request a remote testimony?
A: Giuliani’s lawyers initially asked to testify remotely at the contempt hearing, but changed their mind after Judge Liman warned that Giuliani’s options would be limited if he did not appear in person.
Q: Will Giuliani face sanctions for failing to turn over assets?
A: Judge Liman has not yet ruled on whether Giuliani will face civil sanctions for failing to turn over some assets. The case is ongoing, and a trial is scheduled for mid-January to determine the disposition of Giuliani’s assets.
