America has rallied behind Donald Trump, ushering him in as the 47th president of the United States. Today was supposed to be the moment he’d find out if the courts would also back him up and scrap that lingering “hush money” conviction. But, as it goes in the world of law, things aren’t always straightforward.
This Tuesday, Judge Juan Merchan, presiding over Trump’s criminal case in New York, decided to hit the brakes on any decisions. He put a hold on whether to move forward with sentencing or to dismiss the conviction altogether, all thanks to the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent ruling on presidential immunity.
In a message sent to both Manhattan prosecutors and Trump’s legal team, Judge Merchan announced that the case would be frozen until November 19. By that date, prosecutors are expected to weigh in on what they think should happen next, especially now that Trump has claimed the title of president-elect.
As we’ve reported earlier, Trump is facing the possibility of up to four years in the slammer after being found guilty on all 34 counts of falsifying business records. This mess stems from payments made to adult film star Stormy Daniels back when he was gearing up for his 2016 presidential run.
RELATED:Donald Trump’s Sentencing For His Conviction On Criminal Charges In Hush Money Trial Postponed
Scheduled for sentencing on November 26, Trump might still catch a break if Judge Merchan decides to toss the case out, following the Supreme Court’s ruling that granted presidents extensive immunity from prosecution for various official acts performed while in office. The court, leaning conservative with a 6-3 majority, made it clear that this immunity is no small matter.
Trump’s legal team is banking on the idea that his recent election necessitates the dismissal of all criminal charges hanging over his head.
“The stay, and dismissal, are necessary to avoid unconstitutional impediments to President Trump’s ability to govern,” wrote Trump attorney Emil Bove in an email sent to the judge, according to The Hill.
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