Trump’s Indictment: Everything you need to know about the Legal Battle Ahead and Future Impacts to the Republican Party

Former President Donald Trump has been officially indicted for possible criminal wrongdoing pertaining to the payment of hush money to former porn star Stormy Daniels during the 2016 election cycle. This marks a crucial step in the ongoing legal battle that has dogged Trump and his administration since he first took office.

What follows will likely be a lengthy process with many newsworthy milestones:

· Arrest and Arraignment: Reports have confirmed that the grand jury in Manhattan have filed formal charges against Donald Trump, meaning he must either turn himself into law enforcement or be arrested on those charges. Once taken into custody, an arraignment hearing would be arranged. Reports say he has to appear as early as Tuesday of next week.

· Pretrial Proceedings: In this period, attorneys from both sides will exchange evidence and inform the judge as to any pretrial motions they wish to make.

· Trial: Should the case go to trial, prosecutors must provide tangible proof that legally supports their accusations, while the defense counterargues against them. The jury then determine whether or not to convict Trump.

· Sentencing: If convicted, Trump could face sentencing according to the state guidelines as decided by the presiding judge.

· Appeals: After a conviction, Trump may appeal his verdict or sentence to a higher court. This appeals process can take years and include multiple court levels.

This is an unprecedented outcome, as there has never been an instance of a former President of the United States being accused of criminal charges before. This ruling by the courts could set a precedent for how all future Presidents, after they have left office, are held responsible for the actions they take while in office. While he no longer has the protections previously afforded to him due to his Presidential status, there remain legal questions surrounding whether he can be indicted and if a trial would even be constitutional.

Objectors to the process assert that it is unconstitutional under the U.S. Constitution because impeachment is primarily designed for removing a sitting President from office rather than punishing them or barring them from holding future office. But conversely, many legal specialists deem that the text of the Constitution does not explicitly forbid impeaching and trying a past President. They argue that the power to pursue impeachment extends to those who have left office, and the Senate holds authority to convict such an individual and restrict them from taking part in any public office in the future.

The legality of prosecuting a former president has been widely debated, but ultimately it may be the courts who decide. This indictment carries serious political implications, as it could further damage Trump’s reputation and legacy. It could also cause deep divisions within the Republican Party depending on whether members rally around Trump or distance themselves from his policies in an effort to avoid being associated with the scandal. Even if he is not convicted, there is still potential for the party to suffer, as some voters and donors may hesitate to support Republican candidates due to this latest development. As we move forward, it will be interesting to see how this legal action continues to shape American politics.