During a recent deposition, Hunter Biden testified that he is financially destitute, owning no car, phone or valuable assets beyond self‑painted artwork. He said he survives entirely on income from his recent position at a Los Angeles addiction treatment centre.
The testimony comes as Winston Taylor, the law firm that represented Biden in federal criminal matters and congressional investigations, pursues a $17 million claim for unpaid legal fees. The firm alleges that Biden reneged on payments after the representation began in late 2022.
Biden countered that the firm was aware of his lack of funds when it took the case. He recalled the firm’s reassurance: "They absolutely said at the beginning, 'Don't worry, we'll work it out,'" and maintained that his family cannot provide financial assistance.
Family finances under the spotlight
Hunter Biden’s claim of having "no assets" contrasts sharply with recent reports that President Joe Biden received a $10 million advance for a forthcoming book and that First Lady Jill Biden’s memoir has topped bestseller lists. Observers note that such advances are typically paid in instalments and are reduced by taxes and fees.
Sources say the Biden family’s once‑robust financial network – bolstered by speaking fees and book deals – has reportedly dried up amid the president’s health concerns and a perceived decline in political influence.
Legal manoeuvres and other disputes
Abbe Lowell, a former attorney for the Bidens, said he tried to set up a legal defence fund and a political nonprofit to meet the costs of the litigation. He expressed puzzlement over Winston Taylor’s decision to sue, suggesting the move could have political motivations.
Additional financial pressures on Hunter Biden include a $1.7 million defamation judgment against former Overstock CEO Patrick Byrne and an ongoing child‑support dispute with Lunden Roberts, the mother of his daughter Navy. Winston Taylor has moved to place a lien on the Byrne judgment, although Byrne’s residence abroad complicates collection.
Further scrutiny arises from Biden’s regular appearances on U.S. podcasts, which contradict his lawyers’ claims that he lives abroad.
Broader context
The case illustrates the intersection of personal financial mismanagement and high‑stakes legal battles. Alongside the fee dispute, Biden faces tax‑evasion charges linked to IRS whistleblowers Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler. His deposition paints a picture of extensive debt, political connections and strategic litigation that continues to evolve.
First reported by the source material.