Prominent attorney Alan Dershowitz has expressed strong disapproval of Judge Juan Merchan for his pre-sentencing announcement regarding President-elect Donald Trump.

Dershowitz argues that Judge Merchan's actions wrongfully influenced the U.S. Supreme Court's decision not to intervene in Trump's sentencing, as the Daily Caller reports.

The former professor's criticism comes in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court's decision on Thursday to reject Trump's attempt to stop his sentencing.

Trump faced this hearing after being found guilty of 34 felony counts related to falsifying business records. These charges stem from a $130,000 payment made to Stormy Daniels, which Trump classified as a "legal expense."

Strategy Said to Influence Judicial Proceedings

Merchan had declared in advance his intention to impose a sentence of unconditional discharge, meaning no jail time, fines, or probation for Trump. Dershowitz argues that this unusual disclosure influenced the Supreme Court by indicating there was no need for urgent intervention.

According to Dershowitz, the premature announcement was a strategic move that assured the justices that Trump would not face imprisonment, thus swaying their decision to not block the sentencing.

In discussing his concerns, Dershowitz stated, "I devised the term lawfare... this horrible, horrible thing that has been used against American democracies." He suggested that Judge Merchan's actions were part of an attempt to manipulate the legal system.

Trump's Guilty Verdict and Subsequent Sentencing

Trump's guilty verdict was delivered on May 30. He was accused of falsifying business records linked to the payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. At the sentencing, which Trump attended virtually, he announced his intention to appeal the decision.

The Supreme Court, in its order, recognized that any alleged violations in evidentiary procedures could be addressed through appeals. They further noted the minimal impact of the sentencing on Trump's duties due to the nature of the unconditional discharge following a short virtual hearing.

Divide at the Supreme Court

While the Supreme Court ultimately chose not to block Trump's sentencing, not all justices were in agreement. Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Neil Gorsuch, and Brett Kavanaugh were reportedly inclined to support stopping the proceedings.

Dershowitz criticized the involvement of Justices in his remarks, arguing they were misled by Judge Merchan's announcement, undermining the usual uncertainty in such procedures.

"I have never had a judge tell me in advance what the sentence was going to be," Dershowitz emphasized, reflecting on his extensive legal experience.

Trump's Reaction to Sentencing Outcome

Trump, who appeared defiant following the sentencing, issued strong statements dismissing the case against him. In a public address, he described the proceedings as a "despicable charade."

In his statement, Trump also highlighted his electoral success, framing the legal process as an act of interference. He expressed his intention to appeal, aiming to restore trust in the justice system.

Plans for Appeal

Following the sentencing, Trump was quick to outline his plans to challenge the verdict. He called the legal action a "hoax" without merit, signaling a continued battle in court to clear his name.

As the legal process unfolds, the case remains a significant matter of public interest, with implications reaching beyond the courtroom. Trump's appeal will likely revisit the issues that Dershowitz highlighted, potentially challenging the basis of his conviction.

This development emphasizes the ongoing legal struggles and controversy surrounding Trump's recent legal challenges.

The discourse continues to evolve, influenced by high-profile viewpoints like those of Dershowitz, and the impending appeal may bring further scrutiny and discussion.