With the presidential race for the White House heating up and Trump emerging as a leading candidate in the ballots, it becomes “incumbent” upon the Supreme Court to quickly announce a final ruling on Trump’s criminal charges for the best interest of voters and the country’s future, a legal expert suggests.
Trump’s Legal Maze
On Tuesday, ex-federal prosecutor Joyce Vance stated that not knowing the law doesn’t justify ignoring it. Yet, in the face of the four criminal cases he faces this year, Donald Trump seems to be leaning on this approach for his political defense strategy.
“Ignorance is no excuse”
Writing for MSNBC, Vance states, “Americans are taught from an early age to follow the law. Ignorance is no excuse; neither is personal opinion or preference. This is our obligation, and part of the social contract we make with fellow citizens.”
Are Courts Quick Enough?
In her commentary, Vance said that while judges often determine their own schedules, legislation like the Speedy Trial Act in Georgia set specific deadlines.
She acknowledged that there are examples of the U.S. Supreme Court acting promptly, but these are exceptions.
Too Slow for Rescue
Vance stressed that many significant issues are demanding prompt action, as these decisions are crucial in shaping the destinies of those involved in the cases. Otherwise, the slow pace of decision-making can be detrimental to those the courts are meant to help and rescue.
Decisive Moments in Court History
Vance noted, “Courts can also move quickly when they choose to,” referencing the Supreme Court’s July 1974 order for President Richard Nixon to surrender Oval Office tape recordings to the Watergate special prosecutor.
The verdict was unanimous at 8-0, with Justice William Rehnquist recusing himself. Nixon v. United States was argued on July 8, and the decision came less than three weeks later. Similarly, the court resolved Bush v. Gore, the 2000 Florida vote recount case, just a day after hearing arguments.
Right to Know
Vance asserts that citizens have the right to be informed about the outcomes of criminal cases involving top candidates, referring to recent polls indicating that many Americans, who intend to vote for Trump in 2024, would reconsider their choice if he were convicted of a crime.
“Americans are entitled to know the outcome of as many of these matters as possible before they vote,” she argued.
Tick-Tock: Time Is Ticking
Vance insists that the Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, which is set to hear the Trump immunity case on January 9, should at least deliver a quick verdict. The appeals court and the Supreme Court, she argues, have “an obligation to render their decisions quickly.”
Election Deadlines Loom
Vance added, “Proceedings in the case, which is currently set for trial on March 4, are stayed until the appellate issues are decided. Similarly, the question of Trump’s eligibility to be on the ballot in 2024 requires a timely resolution, with primary dates and earlier deadlines for ballot printing coming up fast.”
Trump’s “Witch Hunt”
Trump frequently labels the numerous investigations and cases against him as a “witch hunt”. However, as Vance points out, anyone who has thoroughly examined the charges against him would understand why she describes this as a “national crisis.”
Hurry, Supreme Court
Vance recognizes that the legal and judicial system can be slowed down by various intricate elements that delay quick decisions, she insists that this particular case demands prompt action, especially from the Supreme Court. “It is incumbent upon them,” she stresses.”
Decide Before Vote
Before voters cast their ballots for the next leader in the upcoming elections, Vance stresses the “immunity matter,” urging the Supreme Court to follow the 11th Circuit’s case of quick decision-making.
She calls for the acceleration of oral arguments and a rapid verdict. “Only then,” she contends, can Americans be certain of the justice they are due before the November elections.
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