Trump: The Court Roster This Week
Appeal against the contentious gag order fixed for hearing today.
Introduction
Welcome to the newest update of "Trump: The Court Roster This Week," our ongoing coverage of the myriad criminal and civil cases involving Donald Trump, the 45th President of the United States. A notable highlight this week is the anniversary of Jack Smith's appointment as special counsel overseeing these significant cases.
Upcoming Developments
Gag Order Debate in D.C. Federal Case— hearing today
The D.C. appeals court is poised for a pivotal hearing today on the gag order in Trump's federal election obstruction case, set for Monday, November 20, 2023, at 9:30 AM. Imposed by a lower court, this order restricts Trump's public discourse regarding witnesses, prosecutors, and court officials. Trump's attorneys are contesting the order, claiming it infringes on his free speech rights, an argument underscored by his significant role as a presidential candidate. The constitutionality of this gag order, under the First Amendment, is now under close examination.
Recent Actions and Key Decisions
1. Federal Case on 2020 Election in D.C.
Charges: Four counts pertaining to obstructing the 2020 election results. Planned Trial Date: March 4 Recent Development: Judge Tanya S. Chutkan rejected Trump’s plea to remove references to the Jan. 6, 2021 riots from his indictment, dismissing his claim of potential jury prejudice.
2. State Case on 2020 Election in Georgia
Charges: 13 state charges for purportedly trying to reverse the election results in Georgia. Planned Trial Date: Yet to be announced Latest Update: District Attorney Fani Willis has proposed August 5 as the trial date, anticipating it to last into early 2025. Furthermore, in response to leaks of video recordings of prosecution witnesses from Trump's former legal team, a protective order has been implemented to secure sensitive evidence in the case.
3. State Hush Money Case in New York
Charges: 34 counts linked to a 2016 hush money payment. Planned Trial Date: March 25 Recent Activity: Trump’s attorneys abandoned their effort to shift the state charges to federal court. Meanwhile, the civil fraud trial in New York against Trump and his company is in progress, featuring recent testimony from Donald Trump Jr.
4. Federal Classified Documents Case in Florida
Charges: 40 federal allegations related to the retention of top-secret documents at Mar-a-Lago. Planned Trial Date: May 20 Current Status: Judge Aileen M. Cannon has refused a request by prosecutors for Trump’s lawyers to declare by mid-December their intended defense strategies concerning the classified documents.
Question Time: The Scheduling Dilemma
A key query is whether prosecutors can challenge Judge Cannon’s ruling on trial scheduling, which might delay the case. Ordinarily, judges' pretrial scheduling decisions are not subject to appeal, with judges having considerable latitude in case management. Overturning such a decision would necessitate demonstrating significant harm or clear bias, a formidable task.
Conclusion
"Trump: The Court Roster This Week" continues to track the complex and evolving legal saga involving various federal and state cases against the former president. Keep an eye out for more updates as these high-profile proceedings unfold.
