Live updates In hush money trial closing arguments, Trump defense says he was a victim

In New York, defense attorneys deliver their closing remarks first, followed by prosecutors. Attorneys are not meant to explain the law in their closing arguments, which Merchan reiterated Tuesday. Instead, attorneys are supposed to make their cases about what they think the facts and evidence in the case show. Then judges explain the law, and jurors are supposed to ultimately decide.

Trump did not take the stand, but he has repeatedly assailed the case in remarks to reporters outside the courtroom. He has pleaded not guilty and denied any wrongdoing.

Trump’s former longtime lawyer Michael Cohen was the prosecution’s key witness, and his account, background and trustworthiness are expected to be frequent subjects of the closing arguments.

The trial is not being televised. The Washington Post has reporters in the courtroom and media overflow room who are posting live updates.

Trump faces 34 counts of falsifying business records related to his reimbursement of Cohen for a hush money payment before the 2016 election to Daniels, who alleged that she had a sexual encounter with Trump years earlier.