The jury instructions in the ongoing trial have been finalized and are now in the hands of the attorneys. These instructions serve as a crucial roadmap for jurors to interpret the law and apply it to the evidence and testimony presented during the trial. Both the defense and prosecution were negotiating major issues to be included in the instructions, with the judge ultimately making the final decisions.
As the trial progresses, closing arguments are expected to take place after the long holiday weekend, possibly bleeding into the following day. Following the closing arguments, the judge will provide the jury with instructions that are anticipated to last about an hour. The jurors will then deliberate until they reach a verdict.
During the deliberation period, the former president will be present in the courthouse, awaiting the jury's decision in a designated war room. The verdict will consist of 34 counts, with each count being read individually as guilty or not guilty. If there are any guilty verdicts, the judge will have discretion over the sentencing.
The judge is also expected to determine the sentencing date, which could potentially be scheduled after the upcoming November election. This decision could have significant implications, as voters may find the former president listed as a convicted felon on the ballot. The outcome of the trial is poised to be historic, regardless of the final verdict.
