Evidence
Where did the FBI find classified documents belonging to Trump?
Mar-a-Lago.
What is “actus reus”?
The physical act of committing a crime.
What does the “rule of law” mean?
Everyone is equal under the law.
Who dismissed the 2024 case against Trump on procedural grounds?
Judge Aileen Cannon.
How many counts was Trump charged with in the New York falsified records case?
34
What is “obstruction of justice”?
Interfering with an investigation or legal process.
What is separation of powers?
The division of government powers among branches.
What clause was cited in challenging Special Counsel Jack Smith’s appointment?
The Appointments Clause of the U.S. Constitution.
What kind of information did some of the seized documents contain?
Nuclear and foreign relations details.
Why was Trump accused of obstructing recovery of documents?
He and his aides moved, hid, or altered records and misled investigators.
What concept protects fair legal procedures?
Judicial independence / due process.
Why did the Department of Justice drop its appeal after Trump’s 2024 election win?
Because of political and procedural considerations.
Why does intent (mens rea) matter in the document case?
It proves Trump knowingly retained records without authorization.
What is the burden of proof in criminal cases?
The prosecution must prove the crime beyond a reasonable doubt.
Why is prosecuting a former president complicated under this principle?
Separation of powers limits how one branch can hold another accountable.
What is an example of “abuse of power” in Trump’s cases?
Using presidential authority to attempt to hide documents or obstruct investigators.
What did Trump’s team allegedly do to surveillance footage during the Mar-a-Lago investigation?
Deleted or altered it to obstruct justice.
How can executive privilege affect investigations of a former president?
It can be used as a defense to limit access to sensitive communications.
Why was the dismissal of one Trump case controversial despite evidence?
The dismissal was due to procedural defects, not the strength of the evidence.
How do these cases illustrate the tension between legal technicalities and accountability?
Strong evidence can be overturned by procedural errors or legal loopholes.