New York Judge Juan Merchan announced on Monday that attorneys will begin closing arguments in Donald Trump’s hush money trial next Tuesday, signaling that the former president’s trial is expected to conclude next week.
The judge revealed this at the start of court proceedings, noting that a change over the weekend had led him to delay arguments by a week from his initial plan, as reported from the courtroom.
Merchan stated that other matters will occupy most of this week and that the court will not be in session on Wednesday or Friday, as well as next Monday due to the Memorial Day holiday.
“It was either have a long break now or have a long break then, and unfortunately the calendar is what it is,” Merchan said, according to the New York Times.
If this schedule remains, Merchan will instruct the jury on Trump’s charges following closing arguments, after which jurors will begin deliberations. These deliberations could span hours or days, potentially concluding the trial by next Friday.
On Monday, Trump’s former attorney Michael Cohen returned to the witness stand for his third day of cross-examination by Trump’s legal team. Once the defense’s questioning concludes around midday, prosecutors can re-examine Cohen to restore any credibility that may have been undermined during cross-examination.
Following Cohen’s testimony, the defense will have the opportunity to present its case. Trump has repeatedly stated his intention to testify, though most legal experts advise against it. His lawyers may declare as soon as later on Monday whether Trump will indeed take the stand.
Closing arguments will commence after the defense’s case, with the jury, who have been on duty since April 22, then tasked with determining a verdict based on the judge’s instructions.
