The sentencing of former U.S President,
Donald Trump in connection with his hush-money trial has been postponed until after the November election.
Trump’s lawyers have used several legal manoeuvres to delay the sentencing, which was initially scheduled for the 18th of September.
On Friday, Justice Juan Merchan delayed the sentencing to the 26th of November; citing the unique time frame the matter currently finds itself in – as one of the reasons for the delay.
He wrote that the case demanded a sentencing hearing that is entirely focused on the verdict of a jury whosr verdict must be respected and addressed in a manner that is not diluted by the enormity of the upcoming presidential election.
Trump’s lawyers had asked for the postponement, and later made an unsuccessful second attempt to move the case to federal court.
In May, a New York jury convicted Trump on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records.
It was the first time a current or US president had ever been convicted of a crime.
Trump could face a sentence of up to four years in prison, but Justice Merchan also has the discretion to impose a punishment of a fine, probation, or a short jail term