Lawyers for former President Donald Trump and his co-defendants in the classified documents case are requesting a delay in setting a trial date to allow more time to review additional documents produced by prosecutors. They argue that discovery in the case is far from complete, with the defendants seeking more records from the Special Counsel’s Office and requesting hearings that could result in the production of more discovery. This delay would also provide time to resolve pretrial motions already filed with the judge, and the Speedy Trial Act would continue to be tolled during this period.
Despite Judge Aileen Cannon’s request for Trump’s lawyers to submit a motion on this matter by Friday, the Trump campaign did not immediately respond to NBC News’ request for comment. Critics of Trump and Cannon have expressed concerns that further delaying the trial could mean that the case will not be resolved before the presidential general election later this year. Palm Beach County State Attorney Dave Aronberg stated that it is even clearer now that the case was never going to trial before the election, noting that Cannon has always been deferential to the defense in scheduling.
The classified documents case involves charges against Trump, his aide Walt Nauta, and a maintenance supervisor at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort, Carlos de Oliveira. Prosecutors allege that classified documents were stored at the resort after Trump’s presidency, violating the Presidential Records Act. The defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges. The motion filed by Trump’s lawyers argues for a delay in setting a trial date to allow for further examination of evidence, resolving pretrial motions, and tolling the Speedy Trial Act while providing necessary time for the defense to prepare.
The defendants’ legal team is seeking to ensure that all parties have ample time to process the evidence and legal arguments involved in the case before proceeding to trial. By requesting a delay in setting a trial date, they aim to avoid rushing through the proceedings and potentially jeopardizing the defense’s ability to present a comprehensive case. The motion filed with the court outlines the need for additional time for discovery and pretrial motions, emphasizing the importance of ensuring a fair and thorough judicial process for all parties involved.
The Trump campaign’s lack of immediate response to the request for comment from NBC News suggests a willingness to let the legal process play out without interference. Critics who argue that delaying the trial would impact its resolution before the upcoming election highlight the political implications of the case. However, the legal arguments put forth by Trump’s lawyers focus on the need for due process and thorough preparation in addressing the charges against the defendants. By advocating for a delay in setting a trial date, the legal team is prioritizing the integrity of the legal proceedings and the defense’s ability to adequately prepare for trial.
