Legal experts have voiced concerns over Judge Juan Merchan’s jury instructions in the trial of former President Donald Trump’s alleged business records falsification in New York. Some argue that the instructions might bias the jury towards a guilty verdict, as the judge stated that unanimity on the specific crimes alleged against Trump is not necessary for conviction. These instructions are pivotal in the case, as nuances could heavily influence the jury’s decision on whether to find Trump guilty of falsifying business records to hide payments to an adult film actress.
Judge Merchan’s instructions, delivered in a Manhattan courtroom on May 29, clarified a crucial aspect of the case: the underlying conspiracy charge related to influencing an election by unlawful means. He outlined two essential elements the prosecution must prove for a conviction: Trump’s personal involvement or collaboration in falsifying business records and the intent to commit or conceal another crime.
