Erika Jayne is no stranger to headlines. But this time, it’s a courtroom, not a Bravo confessional, that’s front and center. The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star is officially heading to trial over those infamous $25 million in expenses allegedly tied to her estranged husband Tom Girardi’s now-defunct law firm. While Erika has maintained her innocence from the start, the legal saga is far from over. And this next chapter could be the most revealing yet. Let’s break down what’s at stake. And who might be standing by Erika’s side as she faces her biggest battle yet.
Erika Jayne trial news comes after Tom Girardi’s sentencing
As they say, timing is everything. And Erika’s upcoming day in court comes on the heels of some major developments in the Girardi legal mess. Just weeks ago, Tom was sentenced to 7 years and 3 months in federal prison for allegedly embezzling millions from his clients, including widows, orphans, and burn victims. He was also ordered to pay $2.3 million in restitution to victims and a $35,000 fine. It was a shocking fall from grace for the once-powerful attorney, and it’s left Erika squarely in the hot seat. While Tom’s criminal proceedings may be wrapping up, Erika’s civil issues are just heating up. The $25 million in question allegedly went to fund her lavish lifestyle while married to Tom. Think glam squads, designer clothes, private jets, and all the XXPEN$IVE things that made her a standout on RHOBH.
The big question now? The question is whether Erika knew or should have known that those expenses were paid for with stolen money. So far, Erika has denied any wrongdoing. But the trial will determine whether the courts and the public believe her side of the story.
What we know about RHOBH star Erika Jayne’s upcoming trial
The upcoming trial is a civil case, not a criminal one, but don’t let that fool you; it’s still serious business. Ronald Richards gave a massive update, and the trial sounds daunting. Erika is being sued by the trustee overseeing the bankruptcy of Tom’s former law firm, Girardi Keese. The trustee alleges that more than $25 million was transferred to Erika’s company, EJ Global, and used to bankroll her ultra-glam persona. Ronald showed newly filed court documents which read, “All of the payments at issue were accounted for on Mr. Girardi’s books and records as an intercompany debt ‘due from’ EJ Global, which the Trustee alleges is Erika’s alter-ego. The company has done nothing for years and the Franchise Tax Board of California also found it was not a real business.”
And while Ronald agrees that Erika might have had nothing to do with Tom’s issues, he added, “We agree with her on that. However, she was the beneficiary of all of those payments and gave nothing in return for them and that is the essence of a fraudulent conveyance action.” The upcoming trial will dive into her financial records, business dealings, and possibly even her RHOBH salary. If found liable, Erika could be ordered to repay millions. Money she may or may not have access to, depending on how deep this legal rabbit hole goes. And with the Bravo cameras rolling, you can bet every moment of this drama will be dissected by fans and critics alike.
Erika could find support in new boyfriend John McAfee, aka “Shrek”
Through all the legal drama, Erika’s personal life has taken a turn for the unexpected. Enter John McAfee. No, not the published author, but a new man who’s been dubbed “Shrek” due to his decorated military career. Erika confirmed the relationship on her podcast, Diamonds in the Rough, and while viewers are still trying to figure out who exactly Shrek is, he may be the calm presence Erika needs during this storm. She told listeners, “I met someone and we went out on two dates, and then we went to get a manicure-pedicure.” The singer added, “It was really nice. Like, I feel comfortable holding this person’s hand, and he’s a nice man. I haven’t been seen with anybody in five years. So this is a really nice person, and I enjoy my time with him.”
Not much is known about John except that he is a retired US Army Special Operations Sergeant Major. He also served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Whether he’s attending court dates or just offering emotional backup, Erika seems to be leaning on him more than ever. And with her legal battle heating up, having someone in her corner could make all the difference. Erika’s legal journey is far from over, and the upcoming $25 million trial could be her biggest reckoning yet. With Tom’s sentencing behind her, Erika is now the one in the spotlight. And the outcome could reshape her Bravo future for good.
The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills is available to stream on Peacock and Hayu in the UK and Ireland.
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