Judge Rejects Trump’s Request to Move The Case to Federal Court

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Federal judge denies Trump’s request to intervene in New York hush money case, setting stage for potential sentencing.

At a Glance

  • Judge Alvin K. Hellerstein rejected Trump’s attempt to move the case to federal court
  • Trump was convicted on 34 felony counts related to hush money payments
  • Sentencing is scheduled for September 18, less than seven weeks before Election Day
  • Trump faces potential probation or up to four years in prison

Judge Rejects Trump’s Federal Court Request

Former President Donald Trump’s legal team suffered a setback as Federal Judge Alvin K. Hellerstein denied their request to move the New York hush money case to federal court. The decision comes after Trump was convicted on 34 felony counts for falsifying business records related to hush money payments made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. This ruling keeps the case in state court, where Trump’s team has argued there is potential bias against the former president.

The judge’s decision addressed several key points raised by Trump’s lawyers. Hellerstein dismissed claims of presidential immunity, stating that the “hush-money payments were private, unofficial acts, outside the bounds of executive authority.” This determination underscores the court’s view that the actions in question were not part of Trump’s official duties as president.

Implications for Trump’s Legal Strategy

The ruling presents significant challenges for Trump’s legal team as they navigate the complexities of this case. With the federal court option now closed, Trump’s lawyers must focus their efforts on state-level appeals and potentially seek review from the U.S. Supreme Court. The former president’s team has already filed a notice of appeal with the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, signaling their intent to continue fighting the case’s jurisdiction.

Trump’s lawyers “will continue to fight to move this Hoax into federal court where it should be put out of its misery once and for all” his campaign spokesperson, Steven Cheung said.

Trump’s legal team has raised concerns about potential bias and unfair treatment in the state court system. However, Judge Hellerstein made it clear that such issues are for state appellate courts to decide, stating he “does not have jurisdiction to hear Mr. Trump’s arguments concerning the propriety of the New York trial.” This leaves Trump’s lawyers with limited options for addressing their concerns about the trial’s fairness at the federal level.

Sentencing and Political Implications

Sentencing has now been delayed until after Election Day. Trump’s team requested a delay in sentencing until after the November election, citing potential election interference. Manhattan prosecutors objected to efforts to delay post-trial decisions, arguing there is no legal obligation to do so.

The potential sentences for falsifying business records include up to four years in prison, probation, or a fine. The proximity of the sentencing to the election adds a layer of political complexity to the case, as Trump continues his campaign for the presidency.

As the legal proceedings continue, all eyes will be on Judge Juan M. Merchan, who is expected to rule on Trump’s motion to overturn the verdict. These decisions will be crucial in determining the next steps in this high-profile case and its potential impact on the political arena.

Sources

  1. Federal judge rejects Donald Trump’s request to intervene in wake of hush money conviction
  2. Federal judge rejects Trump’s request to intervene in “hush money” case
  3. Judge Denies Trump’s Request to Move Criminal Case to Federal Court
  4. Federal judge rejects Donald Trump’s request to intervene in wake of hush money conviction
  5. Federal judge turns down Trump’s request to get involved in hush money conviction
  6. Federal judge rejects Trump’s request to intervene in “hush money” case

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