Trump Appeals Hush Money Conviction with New Legal Team
President Donald Trump has enlisted the prestigious law firm Sullivan & Cromwell to challenge his criminal conviction in the Manhattan hush money case.
The standout figure in Trump’s new legal lineup is Robert Giuffra, the firm’s co-chair. Joining him are four other seasoned Sullivan & Cromwell attorneys, all former Supreme Court clerks: James McDonald, Morgan Ratner, Jeff Wall, and Matthew Schwartz.
Championing the Rule of Law
In a statement, Giuffra emphasized the significance of Trump’s appeal, not just for the President but also for New York’s legal standing and the broader implications on public officials. He criticized the Manhattan DA’s use of criminal law against Trump, highlighting the potential precedent it sets.
During the transition period, Giuffra was considered for the role of attorney general in Trump’s administration, with support from influential legal adviser Boris Epshteyn.
Legal Transition
In the hush money case, Giuffra and his team take over from Todd Blanche and Emil Bove, Trump’s previous representatives during the trial. Blanche, nominated as deputy attorney general by Trump, will be succeeded by Bove in the Justice Department hierarchy.
The decision of Sullivan & Cromwell to represent Trump marks a shift in the legal community’s stance towards him. When Blanche initially took on Trump’s case in 2023, he had to resign from his partner position at Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft.
Legal Expertise and Background
Giuffra’s legal career includes representing major companies like Volkswagen AG and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. He has also served on various New York state ethics boards.
Trump’s conviction last spring, related to concealing a payment to Stormy Daniels, resulted in 34 felony charges. Despite being sentenced to unconditional discharge, Trump is pursuing an appeal of the conviction.
Expectations are high for Trump’s forthcoming appeal, with Sullivan & Cromwell’s legal prowess at the forefront.
