What to expect following guilty verdict in Trump criminal trial

Following the guilty verdict in Donald Trump’s criminal trial in New York on Thursday, May 30, sentencing is scheduled for July 11. However, the former president is likely to appeal the conviction, as he has asserted that the charges were politically motivated and legally flawed.

Trump was convicted of falsifying business records and a Class E felony in New York, which is the lowest tier of felony in the state and could result in up to four years in prison for each count. However, it is uncommon for someone with no prior criminal history to receive a prison sentence for this type of crime.

The judge may opt for alternative punishments such as a fine, probation, or house arrest. The Manhattan District Attorney has not indicated whether his office will seek prison time.

Throughout the trial, Justice Juan Merchan emphasized the importance of allowing Trump to continue his presidential campaign, indicating that any sentencing would consider his First Amendment rights. Factors influencing sentencing will include the nature of the offense, potential victims and Trump’s acceptance of responsibility, which he has denied by pleading not guilty.

Post-verdict, the Secret Service stated that its protective measures would remain unchanged regardless of the trial’s outcome. If Trump is sentenced to jail, he will require heightened security, including screened personal items and isolation from other inmates.

If sentenced to home detention, Trump could serve it at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, with New York coordinating with Florida’s probation department. If sentenced to jail time, the duration will dictate whether he serves in a state penal facility or a city correctional facility like Rikers Island.

Trump could also delay serving any sentence by appealing the verdict, a common practice in white-collar cases. This could potentially postpone any imprisonment until after the upcoming presidential election. Despite his conviction, Trump remains eligible to continue his presidential campaign, even if incarcerated.