Hunter Biden has enlisted the help of a prominent criminal defense attorney to represent him in his upcoming tax evasion trial, following unsuccessful plea deal discussions with the special counsel handling the case. The possibility of a plea deal still exists, which could potentially spare President Joe Biden's son from facing a second trial after his recent conviction on gun-related charges.
The talks between the two parties have not progressed to a concrete agreement, leaving uncertainty about reaching a deal before Biden's scheduled tax trial in California next month. To navigate the tax trial, Hunter Biden has brought on defense attorney Mark Geragos, known for his firm based in Los Angeles, due to financial constraints and time limitations faced by his DC-based defense team.
The evolving legal and political landscape surrounding Hunter Biden underscores the potential benefits of avoiding a costly and embarrassing second trial as his father nears the end of his term in the White House. Financial considerations have also come into play, with Biden's primary supporter, Kevin Morris, facing limitations in funding his defense.
The Delaware trial lasted seven days, but the tax trial is expected to be lengthier and more expensive for the defendant. Hunter Biden's defense in Delaware was led by Abbe Lowell, a top partner at a corporate defense firm, who has been managing multiple lawsuits and appeals alongside the ongoing legal proceedings.
Plea negotiations have resurfaced following Biden's gun conviction in Delaware, with discussions focusing on reducing potential jail time and charges. The federal tax trial, set to commence in Los Angeles, may revisit past issues related to drug addiction and personal relationships, with witnesses like the widow of Beau Biden and Lunden Roberts, the mother of one of Hunter Biden's children, expected to testify.
Prosecutors aim to prove that Biden evaded $1.4 million in federal taxes by concealing international business activities and extravagant expenditures. While Biden repaid the taxes, a conviction could lead to increased prison time and fines. The possibility of a pardon or sentence commutation by President Joe Biden remains uncertain, as he previously stated he would respect the jury's decision regarding his son's case.
Both of Hunter Biden's attorneys, Lowell and Geragos, have experience in high-profile legal matters, including advocating for pardons. However, any discussions regarding a potential pardon are likely to occur between father and son, with a decision expected closer to the end of Joe Biden's presidency.
