A judge has granted Hunter Biden's request to delay his tax trial in California from June 20 to September 5, despite opposition from the prosecution. Biden's attorney cited difficulties in obtaining expert witnesses as the reason for the delay. This decision follows a series of legal maneuvers by Biden's team to delay or dismiss charges in both his tax case and a separate gun case in Delaware.
Judge Mark Scarsi has denied Hunter Biden’s motions to dismiss, offering an interpretation of the diversion agreement and inviting additional briefing on the matter. However, his approach has raised concerns about the rush to trial and potential misapplication of legal standards, leading to a misrepresentation of evidence and a questionable interpretation of the contract. Scarsi's handling of the case has sparked debate over the authority over prosecutions and the application of legal standards.
The judge overseeing Hunter Biden's federal tax case rejected all eight motions filed by Biden's legal team to dismiss the tax charges against him, including arguments about a failed plea deal and selective prosecution. The judge stated that there was no clear evidence of discriminatory effect and purpose in the prosecution. Biden's attorney criticized the decision and vowed to continue challenging the handling of the case. Biden was also indicted on federal gun charges, with the trial scheduled for June.
U.S. District Judge Mark Scarsi denied all eight of Hunter Biden's motions to dismiss the nine federal tax charges he faces in California, rejecting claims of politically fueled prosecution. Biden's attorney plans to continue challenging the handling of the case. Federal prosecutors allege a "four-year scheme" by Biden to evade paying at least $1.4 million in taxes, including funding an "extravagant lifestyle" and classifying personal expenditures as business deductions. If convicted, he faces up to 17 years in prison.