Donald Trump Jr. took the stand on Wednesday in a civil fraud trial brought by the New York attorney general, Letitia James, against the Trump Organization, the family's business empire. Testifying for the first time about the case, Trump Jr. denied any involvement in the annual financial statements that were submitted to banks and insurers, despite language in the statements suggesting his responsibility for them.

During his testimony, Trump Jr. stated that he did not work on the 2017 financial statement and that the accountants were responsible for its preparation. However, he later clarified that his conversations with others at the company may have informed the financial statement. The attorney general's office has claimed that these financial documents were filled with fraud, which helped the Trump Organization gain favorable treatment from lenders.

Trump Jr.'s testimony was otherwise unremarkable, with him answering questions posed by the attorney general's lawyers in a congenial manner and often smiling at the judge, Arthur F. Engoron. He wore a navy suit and pink tie, appearing comfortable and confident throughout his testimony. However, he spoke rapidly, prompting the judge to ask him to slow down.

The trial, which began last month, has seen more than 20 witnesses questioned by the attorney general's office, delving into the specifics of the annual financial statements and the operations of the Trump Organization. Trump Jr. is the third defendant to testify, following Allen H. Weisselberg, the former CFO of the company, and Jeffrey McConney, the former controller.

The lawsuit brought by Attorney General James seeks a fine of $250 million and a ban on former President Donald Trump from conducting business in New York. The judge has already found that the Trump Organization exaggerated its wealth and falsified business records. The trial will determine the penalties to be imposed.

Following Trump Jr.'s testimony, his brother, Eric Trump, and sister, Ivanka Trump, are scheduled to take the stand. However, Ivanka's lawyer has sought to block her subpoena, and an appeals court will decide whether she is required to testify. Former President Trump is also set to testify on Monday.

Throughout the trial, the former president has denied any wrongdoing, and his lawyers have argued that asset values are subjective and that individuals outside the company should be held accountable for any issues with the financial statements. Trump Jr. appeared to echo this sentiment, emphasizing the role of outside accountants in preparing the statements.

The trial will continue to unfold as the defendants' testimonies shed light on the alleged fraud committed by the Trump Organization and determine the penalties to be imposed if they are found liable for violating New York law.