Last Tuesday, attorneys for Donald Trump filed a request to dismiss the Manhattan business records case. By Friday, Justice Juan Merchan had granted the request, allowing the motion to be officially filed by December 2.

This legal maneuver postpones the previously scheduled sentencing, which was set for November 26, highlighting a potentially lengthy legal process ahead.

Response Deadline Set For Manhattan DA

Following the approval to file for a motion to dismiss, the Manhattan District Attorney’s office, led by Alvin Bragg, has been given until December 9 to respond. This response will be crucial in determining the next steps in the case.

The decision to delay sentencing was influenced by broader legal considerations, including upcoming decisions by the Department of Justice (DOJ).

Trump’s legal team, led by Todd Blanche and Emil Bove, has been strategic in their legal maneuvers, suggesting a December 20 deadline for their motion. This timeline aligns with the expected DOJ decisions regarding two federal cases against Trump, which are anticipated to be dismissed by December 2.

White House Communications Director Weighs In

Steven Cheung, the incoming White House Communications Director, made a strong statement regarding the case, describing the judge’s decision as a “decisive win” for Trump.

“In a decisive win for President Trump, the hoax Manhattan Case is now fully stayed and sentencing is adjourned,” Cheung announced, emphasizing the political victory for Trump.

Prosecutors Seek to Freeze Sentencing

In a notable twist, prosecutors have requested to freeze the sentencing for the duration of Trump’s presidency, suggesting that any potential sentencing should wait until he leaves office.

This approach indicates a cautious strategy by the Manhattan DA’s office, possibly aiming to avoid legal conflicts during Trump’s presidency. The prosecutors' motion reflects an anticipation of political and legal complexities surrounding the case, given Trump’s return to the presidency.

Legal Analysts Predict Challenges Ahead

Legal expert Ken Klukowski provided insights into the potential legal battles ahead. He speculated that freezing the case could lead to significant judicial challenges.

“It’s not surprising that Bragg is asking for the case to be frozen for four years, and that’s exactly the potential trap that we’ve previously explained on these pages,” Klukowski remarked.

He warned that such a move might lead to a humiliating reversal for Justice Merchan if not handled carefully, potentially bringing the case into federal or higher state courts.