Trump's Hush Money Case: Unconditional Discharge on the Horizon?

Donald Trump, found guilty on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to hush money payments, is expected to receive an unconditional discharge on January 10th. Judge Juan Merchan cited the presidential immunity doctrine as his reasoning, stating that it's the "most viable solution to ensure finality and allow Defendant to pursue his appellate options."

<img src="https://cdn.abcotvs.com/dip/images/15748486_trump-ny-trial-img.jpg" alt="Former U.S. President Donald Trump attends his trial">

While Trump faces a potential four-year prison sentence, the judge's decision indicates he will avoid jail time. The conviction, however, will remain on his record. Merchan sharply criticized Trump's "disdain for the Third Branch of government," referencing Trump's public criticism of the justice system.

The Manhattan District Attorney's office, which secured the conviction, hasn't commented. Trump's legal team had repeatedly delayed the sentencing, citing the Supreme Court's ruling on presidential immunity and the ongoing presidential campaign. The judge, however, determined that Trump's conviction was related to "entirely unofficial conduct."

This verdict marked Trump as the first U.S. president, current or former, to be criminally convicted. Trump is expected to file for a stay of the January 10th sentencing hearing.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.