This episode of Serious Trouble covers the swift conviction of Sam Bankman-Fried, Trump's strategy in court, John Eastman's disciplinary proceedings, and the legal issues surrounding a defendant in the Georgia Rico case.
Sam Bankman-Fried, the head of FTX, has been swiftly convicted of serious charges, potentially leading to a 115-year prison sentence.
Former President Donald Trump's legal battles in Washington, D.C. and New York showcase his attorneys' contemptuous approach and politically charged testimony.
John Eastman's disciplinary proceedings before the California bar and his involvement in the Georgia Rico case pose significant legal challenges for him.
Deep dives
Lawsuit against Sam Bagman Freed
Sam Bagman Freed, the head of FTX, has been convicted of multiple serious charges after a swift trial. The federal prosecutors were able to put together a case quickly, aided by Freed's repeated confessions in various mediums. While Freed could face up to 115 years in prison, his lawyers may argue against a second trial on additional charges, considering the gravity of the existing convictions.
Donald Trump's court cases
Former President Donald Trump is facing legal battles in court. A gag order in Washington, D.C. has temporarily been lifted pending a decision on a possible permanent stay during the ongoing appeal process. In a separate trial in New York, involving a civil lawsuit against Trump, his attorneys have been defiant and contemptuous, not focused on winning the case, but rather signaling their disdain for the entire court process. Trump's own testimony during the trial has been confrontational and politically charged.
John Eastman's legal troubles
John Eastman, the former law professor who proposed the theory on overturning election results, is currently facing disciplinary proceedings before the California bar. The bar has recently issued a preliminary finding of culpability against Eastman, stating that he violated the code of professional conduct. Eastman's defiant and arrogant attitude, both in court and during a 60 Minutes interview, may lead to unfavorable outcomes for him. Additionally, his involvement in the Georgia Rico case further adds to his legal woes.
Mark Meadows' book dispute
Former Chief of Staff to Donald Trump, Mark Meadows, is facing a legal dispute with his book publisher. The publisher claims that Meadows breached his contract by including false information in his book, specifically regarding the stolen election claims. They argue that this damaged the book's economic value. While the publisher is seeking to reclaim their advance payment and seek damages, it remains to be seen how the legal process will unfold and whether they can successfully argue their case against Meadows.
Lizzo's anti-slap motion
Musician Lizzo has filed an anti-slap motion in response to a sexual harassment and discrimination lawsuit brought against her by former backup dancers. She argues that the lawsuit attempts to limit her artistic expression and is a strategic lawsuit against public participation. While the motion raises questions about the lawsuit's connection to artistic expression, the burden now falls on the plaintiffs to present evidence supporting their claims. The outcome of this legal battle will determine whether the case goes to trial.
Welcome to this week’s episode of Serious Trouble, in which Josh attempts to troll Ken about maximum sentences. Sam Bankman-Fried was speedily convicted by a jury that took only several hours — one of them spent at dinner — to deliberate. Will the government bother to try him on the remaining charges? Meanwhile, also in New York, Trump and his lawyers continued on a strategy best described as “burn everything down and see what emerges from the ashes.” Plus: former White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows’ publisher sues him because he’s allegedly made statements to Special Counsel Jack Smith that contradict the 2020 election narrative in his book. But Josh and I want to know — what exactly did the publisher think they were paying for? Finally: John Eastman. And Lizzo.
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