In light of the unexpected turn of events, in regards to the Presidential election, Donald Trump has asked to delay the federal fraud trail that was set to begin on November 28. Apparently, the President-Elect would like to wait until after the inauguration to stand trial.
Trump’s lawyer spoke to a judge on Thursday to ask for the delay. When the judge asked why, Trump’s attorney said, “In view of Mr. Trump’s election as President of the United States, your honor.”
According to USA Today, the lawyer, Daniel Petrocelli, also asked if Trump would have to come to court to testify. Apparently, there has never been an instance where a sitting president testified in court as a defendant. He will probably testify via video instead.
“His obligations right now are just monumental,” Petrocelli said of Trump and his new job.
The judge heard Petrocelli out and said he understood. However, he suggested the two parties settle the case, regarding the class action lawsuit involving Trump and his fraudulent university. According to reports, the suit was filed about six years ago on behalf of the former Trump University customers, who claimed they were ripped off and misled about the real estate courses.
Petrocelli said he will make a formal request to delay the trial on Monday, however, until then, he is open to the idea of settling before trial. In the meantime, if the trial goes as originally planned, the judge, who is of Mexican heritage, said he expects it to last until the middle of December.
According to the publication, although the cases against the President-elect are civil, some legal scholars believe that a court could find Trump personally liable for fraud. Which in turn, could provide grounds to consider impeachment proceedings.
It is unclear if Donald Trump is willing to settle the case.
