A federal appeals panel has overturned the 14-year sentence of suspended lawyer Michael Avenatti, known for his representation of porn actor Stormy Daniels in legal battles against former President Donald Trump. The decision was made by a three-judge panel for the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, citing that Avenatti's sentence was based on calculations of a greater loss than what was actually suffered. The case has been sent back to a judge for resentencing.
The panel also discussed the possibility of Avenatti's sentence running concurrently with his current prison time for other convictions. Avenatti is currently serving time for stealing book proceeds from Daniels and attempting to extort Nike.
Avenatti, who has been suspended from practicing law in California, has been representing himself in court. In 2022, he pleaded guilty to four counts of wire fraud and a tax-related charge without a plea deal, expressing a desire to take responsibility for his actions and shield his family from further embarrassment.
Authorities revealed that Avenatti had negotiated and received settlement payments on behalf of his clients, diverting the funds to his personal accounts to support his extravagant lifestyle.
In response to the appeals panel's decision, Avenatti's attorney expressed optimism and stated that Avenatti is looking forward to the upcoming hearing ordered by the Court. The U.S. Attorney's office in Los Angeles, which handled the prosecution, declined to comment on the ruling.
