The federal judge overseeing Hunter Biden’s gun case in Delaware refused to delay the June 3 trial date, despite requests from the president’s son’s lawyers who stated they would not be ready in time. Hunter Biden’s lawyer argued that the defense team needed more time due to his client’s other trial in California and difficulties in lining up witnesses. The judge, Maryellen Noreika, denied the request, stating that the defense team had previously indicated their availability in June.
Hunter Biden is facing charges of illegally purchasing and possessing a revolver in 2018 while using illicit drugs, violating federal law. He has pleaded not guilty to all three felony counts. The trial is set to take place on June 3, with the defense team raising concerns about the short timeline for preparation. The defense has also faced setbacks in attempting to have the case dismissed, with rulings from both the 3rd US Circuit Court of Appeals and Judge Noreika rejecting their attempts.
The defense team is planning to ask the full 3rd US Circuit Court of Appeals to reconsider last week’s decision and seek an injunction to pause the trial until the appeals court rules. Hunter Biden’s lawyer, Abbe Lowell, expressed difficulties in finding witnesses due to reluctance in being involved in a public case in the current political environment. Despite the challenges, the judge reiterated that the trial will proceed as planned on June 3 and advised the defense team to work out new filing deadlines with the prosecution.
Prosecutors have accused Hunter Biden of violating federal laws by purchasing and possessing a firearm while using illicit drugs. The defense team has pleaded for more time to prepare for the trial, citing the challenges posed by his other ongoing trial in California. The judge’s decision to deny the delay request highlights the urgency of the case, with the trial scheduled to begin in a matter of weeks. Despite the setbacks faced by the defense team in attempting to have the case dismissed, they continue to pursue legal avenues to address the charges against Hunter Biden.