The trial of British financier Sanjay Shah, who is charged with defrauding the Danish state of over nine billion kroner (approximately 1.3 billion USD), is not expected to conclude with a verdict until December. This was announced by the presiding judge on Wednesday afternoon in Glostrup, a suburb of Copenhagen. Following the closing statements from both the prosecution and defense at the end of September, the court’s judges will deliberate before reaching a decision in this historically significant case.

There is no dispute that Shah has withdrawn enormous sums from the state treasury through claims for refunds on dividend taxes. However, he defends his actions by asserting that he merely exploited a legal loophole. Shah has repeatedly stated that his actions do not constitute a crime.

During Wednesday’s court session, the issue of fair trial rights became central. Shah’s defense team argues that several ministers have prejudged him through public statements. Lawyer Kåre Pihlmann pointed out that Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard has labeled Shah a “habitual criminal,” a characterization that, according to the defense, could influence the fairness of the trial.

The prosecution, however, rejects the assertion that ministers’ statements have violated Shah’s rights. Prosecutor Dennis B. Rasmussen emphasized that politicians enjoy a broader freedom of speech, especially in cases of significant public interest, and that there is no legal basis to acquit Shah based on such statements. Even if the court were to find particular comments objectionable, it does not necessarily imply that Shah has not received a fair trial, Rasmussen concluded.

The court will address all of these issues when rendering its decision in December.