Trump Lawyers Appeal to Halt Friday’s Sentencing in Hush Money Case/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ President-elect Donald Trump has asked a judge to halt Friday’s sentencing in his hush money case, arguing his planned appeal should pause proceedings. Trump’s legal team cited presidential immunity and his impending second term as reasons for dismissing the case.
Key Points
- Request to Halt Sentencing: Trump’s lawyers claim their appeal to a higher court should automatically pause Friday’s sentencing.
- Conviction Details: Trump was convicted of 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in May, stemming from hush money payments to Stormy Daniels during his 2016 campaign.
- Judge’s Ruling: Judge Juan M. Merchan rejected arguments to dismiss the case and signaled Trump might face no punishment beyond an unconditional discharge.
- Legal Precedents Cited: Trump’s lawyers argued the case violates presidential immunity and New York’s state constitution.
- Opportunity to Speak: Trump is expected to address the court during the sentencing hearing.
Trump Lawyers Appeal to Halt Friday’s Sentencing in Hush Money Case
Deep Look
Trump’s Legal Argument
In a filing Monday, Trump’s legal team requested a halt to Friday’s sentencing in Manhattan, citing their intention to appeal Judge Juan M. Merchan’s recent rulings.
- Key Points of Appeal:
Judge Merchan previously rejected these arguments, stating that completing the sentencing serves justice and ensures finality.
Sentencing Outlook
Despite rejecting Trump’s motion to dismiss the case, Merchan suggested that Trump might face no punishment beyond an unconditional discharge, meaning no jail time, fines, or probation.
The judge acknowledged the demands of Trump’s transition and offered the option to attend the sentencing in person or virtually.
Background on Conviction
- Purpose of Payment: Prevent Daniels from publicizing claims of an affair with Trump during the 2016 campaign. Trump denies the allegations and any wrongdoing.
- Sentencing Range: The conviction could carry penalties ranging from a fine or probation to up to four years in prison.
Statements from Key Figures
- Trump’s Spokesperson: Steven Cheung called the sentencing unlawful, claiming the case was part of a “witch hunt.”
- Michael Cohen: Trump’s former attorney and key prosecution witness said an unconditional discharge would be “judicious and appropriate.”
Case Timeline
- May 2023: Trump convicted of 34 felony counts.
- July 2023: Sentencing initially scheduled but postponed twice at Trump’s request.
- November 2024: After Trump’s election victory, the sentencing was further delayed for input from both sides.
- January 2025: Sentencing set for Jan. 10, days before Trump’s inauguration.
Implications
Trump’s conviction makes him the first president to assume office with a felony record. He plans to appeal the verdict post-sentencing, describing the ruling as a threat to the presidency.
“This would be the end of the Presidency as we know it,” Trump wrote on social media.
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