Former President Trump Files Motions to Dismiss Charges of Illegally Retaining Classified Documents
Legal Team Asserts Presidential Immunity Protects Trump
In a recent legal move, former President Donald Trump’s legal team has filed multiple motions urging for the dismissal of a criminal case in Florida, accusing him of illegally retaining classified documents. Lawyers Christopher Kise and Todd Blanche argue in their motions that Trump’s presidential immunity shields him from prosecution, as the charges relate to his designation of records as personal and their subsequent transfer from the White House to Mar-a-Lago.
The legal team’s argument rests on the premise that since Trump’s actions took place while he was in office, they qualify as official acts and are thus protected by presidential immunity.
Attorney General’s Appointment Questioned
Trumps’ lawyers also challenge the legality of Attorney General Merrick Garland’s appointment of special counsel Jack Smith to investigate the former president, contending that it was “unlawful.” They argue that Smith’s appointment serves as grounds for the dismissal of the documents case.
Another Case against Trump
Additionally, citing a related case, Trump’s lawyers emphasize that the appointment of special counsel Jack Smith arose from a separate indictment against the former president. This indictment, unveiled in August, charges Trump with working to overturn the results of the 2020 election, ultimately leading to the violent riot by his supporters at the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021.
Although the trial for the document case has been scheduled for May 20, Trump’s legal team suggests the date may be postponed. This case in Florida represents just one of the legal battles that Trump faces, as he contends for his return to the White House. In total, he currently faces four criminal indictments across four cities, with a collective total of 91 felony counts.
Visit our Trump-related criminal investigations tracker for updates on his legal proceedings.
