Judge Orders Correction In Courtroom Misimpression

Judge Juan Merchan poses for a picture in his chambers in New York, Thursday, March 14, 2024. Merchan could become the first judge ever to oversee a former U.S. president’s criminal trial. He's presid

During a recent court session, defense attorney Steinglass raised an objection regarding the line of questioning directed at a witness by attorney Bove. The objection was based on the argument that Bove's questions about the FBI interview were deemed 'improper' and could potentially lead the jury to form a 'misimpression.'

Following the objection, Judge Juan Merchan agreed with Steinglass and indicated that the issue would need to be addressed in front of the jury during the upcoming session on Friday. The judge expressed concern that Bove's questions may have left the jury with the belief that the witness, Pecker, had withheld information regarding Hope Hicks.

Judge agreed with objection, scheduled further discussion in front of jury.

Defense attorney objected to FBI interview questions by opposing counsel.

Concern that jury may have been misled about witness withholding information.

In response to the judge's remarks, Bove clarified that the intention behind the question was to highlight that Hicks was not present during the meeting in question. Judge Merchan, while acknowledging that he did not believe Bove acted with intent, cautioned the attorney to exercise caution in his line of questioning moving forward.