Donald Trump's judge Insists: Sentencing will be 10 days before the inauguration

New York Judge Juan Merchan, who convicted Trump in the "hush money" and falsified records case, announced that despite Trump's upcoming January 20th inauguration, the president's sentencing will take place ten days earlier.

Judge Merchan stated today (Saturday) that Trump must be sentenced on January 10th, despite being elected as the 47th U.S. President, and rejected Trump's request to overturn the conviction. The case involves the falsification of business records in New York State, where the president-elect was found guilty on 34 counts.

The dramatic implication is that the president-elect will be present in a New York State courtroom for his sentencing just ten days before being sworn in as the leader of the free world. The judge said Trump can appear either physically or virtually for the sentencing.

In his decision, the judge wrote that "overturning the verdict would undermine the rule of law in countless ways," adding that while the U.S. President's contributions to the nation should be recognized, this doesn't exempt him from sentencing.

Merchan also addressed Trump's attacks on the judicial system, saying they were a significant factor in his insistence on proceeding with sentencing. "The defendant has made extensive efforts to broadcast his disrespect for judges, jurors, grand jurors, and the entire justice system on social media and other forums," Merchan wrote.

This means the conviction will stand, making Trump the first convicted president in U.S. history. Since this is a state case, Trump cannot grant himself immunity, as presidential powers don't extend to state matters. Trump is expected to appeal the conviction to a higher court.

Kikar HaShabbat contributed to this article.