Judge Juan Merchan provided detailed instructions to the jurors before they commenced deliberations in the trial involving former President Donald Trump and hush money payments. The judge emphasized the importance of impartiality and avoiding biases in their decision-making process.
Key points from Merchan's instructions to the jury included:
- Avoiding decision-making based on biases or stereotypes
- Setting aside personal differences
- Avoiding speculation on sentencing or punishment, as that is the judge's responsibility
- Not holding it against Trump for not testifying
- Requiring the prosecution to prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt
- Considering the credibility of witnesses and any potential benefits they may receive
- Using Michael Cohen's testimony cautiously due to his status as an accomplice
- Reaching a unanimous decision on each count if finding Trump guilty
- Deliberating with the goal of reaching an agreement without sacrificing individual judgment
- Restrictions on phone usage and discussions about the case
Merchan also explained the laws relevant to the case, such as the requirements for falsifying business records and violations of the Federal Election Campaign Act. He outlined the elements necessary to establish guilt in these offenses, including intent to defraud and exceeding contribution limits for political candidates.
The judge guided the jury through the different counts against Trump, clarifying tax law violations and the unlawful production of false tax documents. Merchan's instructions aimed to ensure that the jurors understood the legal standards and applied them diligently in their deliberations.
