Chicago Federal Criminal Lawyer Michael Leonard explains how the Hope Hicks testimony further Trump’s defense. On Friday, one of Trump’s high-ranking communications personnel, Hope Hicks, testified as a witness for the prosecution in the Trump NY business records fraud case.
Although a witness may be called by one side in a trial, oftentimes that same witness can provide important evidence that actually assists the other side. Indeed, criminal defense lawyers always attempt to analyze how they can make the prosecution’s witness “their witness,” in whole or part. The goal is always to establish on cross-examination as many facts that support the defendant’s theory of the case.
The testimony of Hope Hicks is a great example of this concept. Ms. Hicks is intimately familiar with Trump based upon her work first for the Trump organization, later her work on the Trump presidential campaign, and finally in her role as communications director in the Trump White House. First, Ms. Hicks came across a quite credible young witness. More importantly, she “vouched” for Trump in several critical respects, i.e., including his work ethic and his interest in and concern for his wife and family.
Furthermore, Ms. Hicks provided testimony that established that, with respect to the Stormy Daniels and McDougal issues, Trump was not solely concerned with how those potential disclosures would impact his campaign for President. She provided evidence that Trump had mixed motives, including concern for his wife and children. Although the prosecution will ultimately attempt to argue that, even if Trump had mixed motives it does not negate the fact that one of his motives is sufficient to convict him of the crimes charged. However, I expect that many jurors will struggle during deliberations with the concept of Trump’s motive and intent. Therefore, Hicks’ testimony was important.
Michael Leonard
Leonard Trial Lawyers
May 4, 2024