Evan Corcoran, an attorney who played a critical role in the classified documents case against former President Donald Trump, has recently departed from Trump's legal team. Corcoran's exit could have significant implications for Trump, as he may be called as a key witness if the case goes to trial.
Corcoran initially joined Trump's legal team to defend against charges in the classified documents investigation. However, he later became a central witness after Trump allegedly misled him about the location of the documents and encouraged him to lie to the Justice Department.
Corcoran was required to appear before a grand jury investigating the case, where he provided notes and memos detailing his interactions with Trump. These materials were crucial in the indictment of Trump, with Corcoran being referred to as 'Trump Attorney 1' in the legal documents.
Despite recusing himself from the classified documents case, Corcoran continued to represent Trump in other investigations. His departure from the team highlights the turnover within Trump's legal defense, with several key attorneys leaving last summer.
Corcoran's role in the classified documents probe is particularly significant, as his memos revealed how Trump sought to undermine a subpoena from prosecutors. The indictment detailed a conversation between Trump and Corcoran regarding the handling of classified documents found at Mar-a-Lago.
Former Mar-a-Lago worker Brian Butler, referenced as 'Trump Employee Number 5' in the indictment, recalled a key moment involving Corcoran and federal investigators at the property. This event ultimately led to the FBI conducting a search at the property two months later.
Corcoran's departure from Trump's legal team underscores the challenges faced by the former president as he navigates multiple legal battles. The case involving classified documents remains in limbo, with unresolved logistical questions and delays prolonging the legal proceedings.
In response to reports of Corcoran's departure, a Trump campaign spokesman dismissed them as 'fake news,' emphasizing Corcoran's continued support in fighting legal challenges against the former president.