Donald Trump has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to intervene in his New York hush money case, aiming to pause the upcoming sentencing scheduled for Friday, January 10. This legal move follows the denial of his request by a New York appeals court, marking a significant chapter in his contentious legal battles.

In a recent filing, Trump’s attorneys are urging the Supreme Court to issue a stay in proceedings as they navigate appeals concerning presidential immunity, referencing past rulings from the nation's highest court (source: Reuters). This case revolves around Trump's conviction related to a $130,000 payment made to adult film star Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election, aimed at silencing claims of an alleged affair.

Trump, who is set to assume the presidency again on January 20, insists he has committed no wrongdoing. His spokesperson has stated that they are seeking to correct what they characterize as "unjust actions by New York courts" (source: The Guardian). The hush money case uniquely positions Trump as the first U.S. president, either sitting or former, to face criminal charges and to have been convicted.

Despite Judge Juan Merchan's indication that he is unlikely to impose jail time and would probably grant Trump an unconditional discharge, the legal maneuvering continues. This would result in a formal judgment of guilt without custodial punishment, a fine, or probation.

Trump's legal team has previously attempted to have the case dismissed, yet these efforts have unanimously failed, signifying the uphill battle they face as they approach sentencing.