A federal judge on Friday dismissed a lawsuit filed in 2018 accusing Donald Trump of being connected to a fraudulent marketing company weeks before it was slated to go to trial, CNN reported.
District Judge Lorna Schofield said the case would be better suited to be tried in state court rather than in federal court and said the plaintiffs are permitted to file their claims there.
"Because this case now involves only three individual plaintiffs asserting claims under their respective states' laws, it is not better suited for adjudication in this court than in state court, particularly those of California, Maryland, and Pennsylvania?" Schofield asked in a court order. "Even though discovery has been completed and certain motions decided, retaining jurisdiction would not serve economy or convenience."
The legal action claimed that, in exchange for undisclosed payments amounting to millions, Trump utilized his reality TV show "The Celebrity Apprentice" and various promotional events to elevate ACN, a telecommunications marketing firm associated with a nonprofit targeting teens using Trump's brand.
The lawsuit contended that the alleged scheme exploited investors, including the recruitment of teenagers, enticing them with promises of success as the "The Trumps of Tomorrow." However, Schofield asserted that the case, previously denied class-action status, would be more aptly handled in state court.
The lawsuit initially included Trump's adult sons, who were dropped from the claims after being deposed. The anticipated trial, set for Jan. 29, now faces uncertainty as the case is redirected.
Roberta Kaplan, an attorney representing the plaintiffs, responded to the judge's decision: "Today's decision addresses only where — not if — plaintiffs' claims should be brought to trial. We intend to continue the fight, and our brave clients look forward to their day in court."
Jim Thomas ✉
Jim Thomas is a writer based in Indiana. He holds a bachelor's degree in Political Science, a law degree from U.I.C. Law School, and has practiced law for more than 20 years.
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