United States – A ruling issued by a federal appeals court panel clearly states that Joe Biden’s son’s bid to dismiss criminal gun charges was rejected. Now, the stage is set for the June 3 trial, which will be the first in the annals of a sitting president.
Trial Proceedings Set Amidst Legal Maneuverings
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit in Philadelphia, through a panel of three judges, stated that Hunter Biden was unable to do that since the lower court had not yet entered to final judgment, as reported by Reuters.
A day or two after the court of appeals issued a ruling, Judge Maryellen Noreika of the United States District Court ordered the trial to begin on June 3rd in Wilmington, Delaware, and last up to six days.
The legal team represented by Hunter Biden will file a petition to review the matter before the full bench of the 3rd US Circuit Court in Philadelphia.
“In reviewing the panel’s decision, we believe the issues involved are too important, and further review of our request is appropriate,” said Abbe Lowell, an attorney for Hunter Biden.
However, Hunter Biden was trying to block an order issued by Noreika last month. The judge rejected two motions to dismiss charges that Hunter Biden allegedly admitted in 2018 that he used illegal drugs while purchasing a Colt Cobra handgun and a third charge of illegal possession of that weapon.
Stakes and Potential Sentencing
The defense team of Hunter Biden had contended that the lower court was not supposed to proceed with a trial until the Federal Appeal Court made its final decision.
Hunting Hunter Biden could get up to 25 years in prison if he’s convicted on/of the gun charges.
Political Ramifications and Ongoing Investigations
This trial will take place at the same time that Joe Biden is running for a second term as the president.
The same impeachment investigation could also be revived should the Republican nominee, former President Donald Trump, be declared a winner during the 2024 presidential run, as reported by Reuters.
Additionally, Hunter Biden also faces a criminal tax hearing in California.