On Monday, January 15, 2024, The New York Times reported that Prominent defense attorney Joseph Tacopina informed a New York court that he has withdrawn from representing former President Donald Trump in an upcoming criminal trial in Manhattan. Tacopina has previously defended Trump in other high-profile cases.
The Manhattan trial concerns allegations that Trump falsified business records related to hush money payments made to porn actress Stormy Daniels during the 2016 presidential campaign. The payments could be considered an illegal campaign contribution. Jury selection for the trial is scheduled to begin next month in March.
Tacopina, known for his successful defense of other celebrities and politicians, gave no reason for no longer representing Trump in this case. He also withdrew from representing Trump in an appeal against a defamation lawsuit brought by writer E. Jean Carroll. A New York jury found Trump liable last year for sexual abuse and defamation and ordered him to pay $5 million in damages.
Legal experts note that Tacopina brought extensive trial experience to Trump’s legal team. However, Trump still faces accusations in multiple investigations and continues to claim they are politically motivated. It remains unclear who will replace Tacopina leading up to the Manhattan trial, which could significantly impact Trump’s political future if he is convicted.
Source: The New York Times
