Donald Trump’s legal team has filed claims of “gross jury misconduct” in his trial over hush money payments to adult film star Stormy Daniels. Trump, found guilty in May of 34 felony counts for falsifying business records, could see the case unravel if these allegations hold weight.
On December 3, Trump’s lawyers privately alerted Judge Juan Merchan to alleged misconduct by a juror. A redacted version of their letter was made public on Monday, as Judge Merchan cited concerns for jurors’ safety in keeping details under wraps.
Why It Matters
The stakes are high:
- Trump does not have presidential immunity from sentencing in this case, per Judge Merchan’s ruling.
- If proven, jury misconduct could lead to the verdict being overturned.
Trump could face potential jail time when he leaves the White House in 2029 unless his team successfully challenges the outcome.
The Legal Framework
Under New York law, a judge can investigate claims of jury misconduct if credible evidence is presented. This includes:
- Jurors accessing or sharing prejudicial information.
- Conducting independent experiments or investigations related to the case.
However, vague claims won’t suffice. Trump’s lawyers must file a motion with specific, sworn allegations, as Judge Merchan emphasized.
What People Are Saying
- Colleen Kerwick, New York attorney:
“Trump will need specific evidence rather than conjecture for a jury misconduct argument.” - Judge Merchan’s Response:
The letter from Trump’s lawyers lacked sworn statements and contained “unsworn and contested allegations.” He clarified the court cannot act on hearsay alone.
Next Steps
Trump’s legal team must:
- Refile their motion with sworn and detailed claims.
- Provide evidence sufficient to convince the court of misconduct.
Judge Merchan has signaled a willingness to investigate, but only if Trump’s lawyers meet these strict legal requirements.
Potential Implications
If Trump’s claims are validated, the case could be reopened, delaying or even overturning his conviction. However, without solid evidence, the allegations could be dismissed, reinforcing the legitimacy of the trial’s outcome.
As the case unfolds, public and legal scrutiny will intensify, with significant consequences for Trump’s legal and political future.
Source: Newsweek
