With former President Donald Trump found guilty on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in New York, the focus now shifts to the sentencing phase and the potential legal and political implications of the unprecedented conviction.
Judge Juan Merchan has set Trump’s sentencing date for July 11 at 10 am ET, ordering parties in the case to file motions by June 13. The sentencing process will likely involve the submission of sentencing memos by both sides, as well as a presentence report based on an interview with Trump.
Although the charges against Trump are Class E felonies, the least serious category under New York law, each count carries a maximum sentence of four years in prison. While factors such as Trump’s age and lack of prior criminal record may weigh in his favor, his conduct during the trial, including attacks on the judge and violations of the gag order, could also be considered in the final sentencing decision.
Legal experts generally believe it is unlikely that Trump will face any jail time as a result of the verdict, with a sentence of probation being more probable for the average defendant convicted of similar crimes.
In the meantime, Trump will be free to speak to the press, travel, and continue his presidential campaign. His guilty verdict does not automatically make him a “convicted felon,” a label that will only apply after he is sentenced in July.
The conviction plunges the nation into uncharted waters as Trump, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, continues his campaign against President Joe Biden.
