Former President Donald Trump has been found guilty of all 34 counts of falsification of business records in a landmark case regarding hush money payments to adult film star Stormy Daniels.

The conviction stems from a New York jury's decision on Thursday, after a five-week trial where evidence was presented against Trump, but new reports indicate that Trump will likely appeal and have a good shot at overturning the weak conviction. 

Sentencing Scheduled for July

With Trump's conviction, sentencing is scheduled for July 11. However, his legal team has already indicated plans to appeal the decision. The Manhattan criminal court system allows a 30-day period for appeals following sentencing.

Despite this, legal experts believe the appeals process could be complex and difficult. Nathaniel Z. Marmur, a legal expert, commented on the challenging nature of the jury instructions, suggesting they might present appellate issues.

Additionally, Barry Kamins mentioned, "This is all uncharted territory, as far as an appellate issue. I certainly don't think there has been a prosecution of falsifying business records like this one."

Appeal Prospects Analyzed by Experts

Trump's legal team is expected to challenge different aspects of the conviction, including whether the records were personal or business in nature. Another potential appeal avenue is the complexity of the jury instructions regarding the election law conspiracy charge.

The initial step in the appeals process is the Appellate Division, First Department. Upon their ruling, the case could progress to the New York Court of Appeals or, potentially, the United States Supreme Court.

However, Mark Zauderer, another legal expert, expressed skepticism about the case reaching the nation's highest court. He stated, "This is a garden-variety state court conviction, I don't see a plausible path to the Supreme Court."

Reactions and Comments

President Joe Biden addressed the ongoing legal saga, defending the judicial process while condemning Trump's characterization of the trial as rigged. Biden emphasized that even if the former president does not agree with the verdict, he has the right to an appeal like any other American.

Biden stated, "Reckless decision to call the trial 'rigged' just because you don't like the verdict. Trump has the 'opportunity to appeal that decision just like everyone else has that opportunity. That’s how the American system works."

Trump himself expressed dissatisfaction with the trial's venue and the judge presiding over the case. He claimed, "We wanted a venue change where we could have a fair trial. We didn't get it. We wanted a judge who wasn't conflicted."

Case Background and Evidence

The trial, which spanned five weeks, delved into the practices of the National Enquirer to suppress damaging stories about Trump. This "catch and kill" approach was a key element in the prosecution's case.

Evidence presented by prosecutors depicted a coordinated effort to prevent the affair allegations from surfacing during the 2016 election. This scheme involved the $130,000 payment by Cohen, which was documented as legal services.

Daniels' allegation about her affair with Trump added a significant dimension to the case, highlighting the efforts made to maintain secrecy and the possible implications for election integrity.

Next Steps in the Legal Process

Looking ahead, the upcoming sentencing on July 11 will be a pivotal event in the ongoing legal battle. Trump's legal team faces stringent deadlines and a challenging appellate landscape.

Should the case progress beyond the initial appeals court, it may reach the New York Court of Appeals or potentially the United States Supreme Court. Despite this possibility, prospects of reaching the Supreme Court appear slim.

Mark Zauderer noted that there are no apparent "red flags" for reversing the conviction on appeal. He also praised the judge's conduct during the trial, stating, "The judge’s demeanor was flawless."

Implications for the 2024 Election

This case adds another layer of complexity to Trump's political landscape as he navigates his candidacy for the 2024 election. Experts anticipate that the appeals process will extend well beyond the election timeframe.

The outcome of this legal battle could significantly influence Trump's campaign and public perception. The intricate legal and political ramifications continue to unfold as the July sentencing date approaches.

In summary, the conviction of Donald Trump on 34 counts of falsifying business records marks a significant moment in American legal history. As the former president prepares for sentencing and a complex appeals process, the implications for both his personal and political future remain in the balance.