Discussions include potential charges against the Trump Organization and its CFO, the decision not to review politicization of the Justice Department, answering listener questions about Trump's role in the insurrection, and explanations of legal terms and concepts like defamation lawsuits and free speech.
The Trump Organization and its CFO are expected to be charged with tax-related crimes, potentially leading to severe financial and reputational consequences.
Attorney-client meetings in legal cases serve different purposes, but rarely result in charges being dropped or the prosecution's decision being swayed.
Attorney General Merrick Garland has entrusted the Department's Inspector General to investigate alleged politicization of the Justice Department, disappointing some Democrats who had hoped for a broader review.
Deep dives
Trump Organization and CFO Expected to be Charged with Tax-Related Crimes
The Trump Organization and its chief financial officer, Alan Weisselberg, are expected to be charged with tax-related crimes by the Manhattan District Attorney's Office. The charges are anticipated following a lengthy investigation into the organization's financial matters. Although the specific charges have not yet been announced, the Wall Street Journal reports that the charges are imminent. The potential charges come after meetings between the defense lawyers and the district attorney's office to discuss the potential consequences for the Trump Organization if indicted, including potential damage to their business relationships with banks and partners.
Attorney-Client Meetings in Legal Cases
Attorney-client meetings in legal cases are common and serve different purposes. These meetings can be an opportunity for prosecutors to present plea agreements to defense attorneys or to attempt to convince the defense of the strength of their case. Defense attorneys may use these meetings to gather intelligence, negotiate minor details, or discuss arrangements connected to the charges. However, it is rare for these meetings to result in charges being dropped or the prosecution's decision being swayed. The purpose and outcome of such meetings can vary depending on the context, including relationships between prosecutors and defense lawyers, institutional beliefs, and strategies employed by the defense.
Consequences of Charging the Trump Organization
Charging the Trump Organization could have severe consequences, both financially and reputationally. If convicted, the organization could face fines, sanctions, and potential limitations in conducting business. The relationship with banks, business partners, and the government could be significantly impacted, potentially leading to severe setbacks. For the Chief Financial Officer, Alan Weisselberg, a felony conviction could have long-lasting consequences on his personal and professional life, including restrictions on his ability to engage in business activities or maintain licenses.
Attorney General Merrick Garland's Decision on Investigation into DOJ Politicization
Attorney General Merrick Garland has decided against conducting a broad review of alleged politicization of the Justice Department during the Trump administration. Instead, he has entrusted the Department's Inspector General to investigate such matters. This decision has been disappointing to some Democrats who had hoped for a more comprehensive investigation. Garland's position is that the Inspector General is best positioned to handle these types of investigations as they have experience and credibility in conducting complex internal investigations.
Arrest Probability for Former President Trump
The probability of former President Trump being arrested is relatively low. Currently, the investigations in Manhattan and at the federal level do not seem likely to result in charges against him. While there may be ongoing investigations and potential situations where charges could be brought, the overall chances of an arrest are low, likely below 10%. It is important to note that this estimation is subject to change depending on new developments and investigations.
As of Wednesday morning, there have been no charges yet against the Trump Organization or any of its senior officials. The Wall Street Journal reported that charges for tax related crimes are expected Thursday for the organization and its CFO, Allan Weisselberg. Ahead of those charges, there have been reports that the New York District Attorney gave Trump Organization lawyers a deadline of this Monday to talk prosecutors out of charging the organization. What’s the purpose of that meeting? What can really happen at this point?
Attorney General Merrick Garland will not conduct a broad review of the politicization of the Department of Justice during the previous administration, disappointing many Democrats. He says the Department’s inspector general is best positioned to investigate such matters. Is that a good decision?
Then: Josh and Ken answer a bunch of questions from listeners about why there probably won’t be any repercussions for President Trump related to his role in the insurrection, a hard-number prediction about whether he will be arrested “at some point,” how Josh and Ken met, and our signature swear jar sound effect. Thank you for sending in your questions and please keep them coming.
The show will return July 14.
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