(DailyChive.com) – A Manhattan judge has paused key legal proceedings against President-elect Donald Trump, offering him some relief as he prepares to take office. The decision delays deadlines in Trump’s case, where he was convicted earlier this year of falsifying business records. This includes pushing back the sentencing date, originally set for November 26, to allow time to assess how his new role as president-elect might affect the case.
Judge Juan Merchan granted the request, which was supported by both Trump’s attorneys and prosecutors. Prosecutors explained that this pause is necessary to consider how Trump’s status as president-elect might change things. They referred to the situation as “unprecedented.”
Trump’s legal troubles stem from a May conviction on 34 counts related to payments made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. The case has drawn nationwide attention, not only for its connection to a former president but also for its timing, occurring just months before the 2024 election.
The delay follows a Supreme Court ruling earlier this year that presidents have broad immunity from prosecution for actions taken while in office. However, it is unclear whether that immunity extends to state-level convictions, a question that has never been tested.
Trump’s legal team has several options to fight the charges. They may argue that the Supreme Court’s ruling should apply, even in state cases, or try again to move the case to federal court. They might also appeal the convictions or seek to dismiss certain evidence. Legal experts say it’s unlikely Trump will face prison time, even if his convictions are upheld. Former prosecutor Andrew McCarthy noted that under New York law, such charges don’t typically result in immediate jail time, especially for someone of Trump’s stature.
Meanwhile, Trump’s team has praised the delay, claiming it reflects the public’s desire to end what they call the “weaponization” of the justice system. Special counsel Jack Smith, who has been investigating Trump in separate cases, has also paused some proceedings, signaling that the legal battles surrounding the president-elect may shift focus in the months ahead.
With Trump set to assume the presidency, these legal issues will remain a key point of contention as he navigates both his new role and the courtroom.
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