NEW YORK CITY -

In a historic twist of events, former President Donald Trump is set to face sentencing on January 10, just days before his inauguration as President-elect. The ruling comes from Manhattan Judge Juan M. Merchan, who acknowledged the unprecedented nature of the case against a sitting president.

On Friday, Judge Merchan indicated that while he is preparing for the January 10 proceedings, he may lean towards an "unconditional discharge"—a legal closure of the case that entails no actual punishment, leaving Trump with a felony conviction as he returns to the White House. Surprisingly, the judge has allowed Trump the option to attend the sentencing virtually due to his involvement in the upcoming transition.

This situation poses a unique dilemma, with Trump holding federal office despite a state-level conviction. Legal experts are divided on the implications. According to Trump’s communications director, Steven Cheung, the former president is determined to contest the charges and “keep fighting” for a dismissal.

Why is Trump Awaiting Sentencing?

Trump was found guilty of 34 felony counts relating to falsifying business records connected to a 2016 hush money payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels, aimed at concealing an alleged affair. Trump maintains his innocence and insists that he did nothing wrong.

Originally, Trump's sentencing was scheduled for July 11 but was postponed several times at his legal team's request. With Trump's victory in the recent presidential election, proceedings have been pushed back, leading to the upcoming hearing.

What Can We Expect on Sentencing Day?

The severe nature of Trump’s charges involves potential penalties ranging from a fine and probation to a maximum of four years in prison, although an unconditional discharge seems likely. Even with a discharge, under New York law, he would still be required to submit a DNA sample for state databases due to the felony conviction.

Can Trump Block the Sentencing?

This part of the process is complicated. Legal veteran and former Judge Diane Kiesel noted that while Trump's team may attempt to appeal Judge Merchan’s recent ruling, it is unlikely they will succeed before the sentencing date. Meanwhile, Trump’s lawyers have been pushing a federal court to take over the case, with a response due from prosecutors by January 13.

If Judge Merchan’s ruling stands, Trump's attorneys have hinted at seeking intervention from the U.S. Supreme Court based on arguments surrounding presidential immunity, referencing a pivotal Supreme Court ruling from July that granted presidents significant legal protections.

What Do Prosecutors Think?

Prosecutors previously urged the judge to maintain the conviction, suggesting strategic options for sentencing that could reflect the president's unique situation. Despite this, the judge found these suggestions untenable and is moving forward with the sentencing.

Can Trump Simply Pardon Himself?

The answer is no. Presidential pardons only apply to federal crimes, and Trump is facing a conviction in a New York state court.

As the January 10th date approaches, the eyes of the nation remain glued on Trump’s next moves, a testament to the continuing saga of one of the most controversial figures in American politics. Will he successfully appeal his conviction, or is this the beginning of a new chapter in his storied career? Stay tuned, as this dramatic legal battle unfolds.