The Complications of Classified Evidence in Trump's Trial
Lawyers for former President Donald J. Trump and prosecutors are expected to discuss how to handle classified materials in the case involving 31 counts of unauthorized retention of national security secrets. The use of classified evidence raises legal issues and logistical hurdles, including the possibility of "graymail" where defendants threaten to reveal classified information during trial to force the government to drop charges. The defense may push for transparency and the public release of sensitive evidence, while the government may seek to limit the use of classified information through the Classified Information Procedures Act (CIPA). The process of handling classified evidence can be complex, involving redactions, substitutions, and the silent witness rule, which allows jurors to see classified evidence while limiting public access.