Hunter Biden tax trial postponed to September
The trial of Hunter Biden on tax charges has been rescheduled to September 5th, following an agreement between the judge and Biden's attorney to avoid any additional delays in the proceedings.
Hunter Biden’s trial on tax charges has been moved to September 5, after the judge presiding over the case made Biden’s attorney promise he would not seek further delays.
Hunter Biden attends a reception celebrating Jewish American Heritage Month Event in the Rose Garden at the White House in Washington, DC, on May 21, 2024.
Hunter Biden attends a reception celebrating Jewish American Heritage Month Event in the Rose Garden at the White House in Washington, DC, on May 21, 2024.
Bryan Olin Dozier/NurPhoto/AP
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Abbe Lowell, the attorney representing Biden, has requested a delay in the case. This is due to challenges related to discovery, finding witnesses, and securing experts. Additionally, Biden is facing a trial for federal gun crimes in Delaware scheduled for June 3.
Hunter Biden, the son of President Joe Biden, has been accused of participating in a tax-avoidance scheme over multiple years. The allegations include funding a luxurious lifestyle and illegally purchasing and possessing a firearm while using drugs. Biden has entered a plea of not guilty to all charges.
Biden’s efforts to delay the gun trial in Delaware have repeatedly failed.
Biden waived his appearance at today’s hearing and was not in court.
Prosecutor Leo Wise opposed the motion, stating, "The time to try this case is now. We feel this attempt should fail."
In response, Lowell retorted, "I reject that zealously representing a client is a delaying tactic."
"There's been a lot of talk about this case, but it's really not that complicated," Wise explained. He emphasized that it simply involves a case against one taxpayer and the amount of evidence is not overwhelming.
"In our court, we prefer to stick to schedules and stick to them," Judge Mark Scarsi commented. He decided to move the trial date to September, stating that the defendant's needs are more important than any inconvenience caused by the change.
This story has been updated with additional details.
Editor's P/S:
Hunter Biden's ongoing legal battles have taken a significant turn with the postponement of his tax trial to September 5th. The decision comes despite repeated requests for delay by Biden's attorney, Abbe Lowell, citing challenges in gathering evidence and securing expert witnesses. The prosecution, led by Leo Wise, has vehemently opposed these efforts, arguing that the case is straightforward and should proceed without further delay.
Judge Mark Scarsi's decision to grant a continuance reflects a balance between the defendant's right to a fair trial and the need for timely justice. The court acknowledged the potential burden on Biden due to his upcoming gun trial in Delaware, scheduled for June 3rd. However, the judge emphasized the importance of adhering to established trial schedules and expressed confidence that the new date would provide adequate time for preparation. As the case proceeds, it will be crucial for both sides to present their evidence and arguments effectively while respecting the rights of the defendant and the interests of justice.
