Judge Merchan Delays Trump Sentencing Until After Election Day

Donald Trump to testify in New York civil fraud trial

Former federal prosecutor Andrew Cherkasky weighed in on Judge Merchan's decision to delay the sentencing in the case involving Donald Trump. The consensus appears to be that the delay was a prudent move, considering the complexities of the legal process that needed to be addressed before the original sentencing date of September 18th.

Cherkasky highlighted the significance of the immunity decision from the Supreme Court that had to be litigated before the judge, with potential appeals from the defense. The delay was seen as a way to avoid rushed and contentious legal battles before the election, turning the case away from being a political hot-button issue.

Judge Merchan's decision to postpone the sentencing until after Election Day was viewed as a move that best serves the interests of justice. Cherkasky noted that this decision could be used to demonstrate the judge's fairness and reasonableness towards Donald Trump, especially in potential future appeals.

The timing of the delay was also analyzed, with considerations about the pressure on Judge Merchan before and after the election. Speculations arose about the possibility of a sentence without jail time for Trump or the impact of sentencing a president-elect to jail time.

Immunity decision from Supreme Court needed to be litigated before sentencing.

Delay seen as wise to address legal complexities before original sentencing date.

Delay aims to avoid rushed legal battles and political controversies before election.

Cherkasky discussed the legal implications of the case, including the limitations on states to act upon criminal charges against a sitting president. The potential scenarios post-election, including a December sentencing or a dramatic move before the inauguration, were also examined.

The Manhattan DA's office, which prosecuted Trump's case, deferred to Judge Merchan's decision on the delay request. Cherkasky highlighted the office's recognition of the need for appeal processes before sentencing and the implications of the delay on the case.

Despite the delay, the conviction in the New York case remains a point of contention that could be used in political discourse. Cherkasky emphasized the ongoing legal battles and the release of more evidence that could impact the electorate's perception of the case.