Donald Trump is “gearing up for battle” in a New York court hearing

Donald Trump’s lawyer has said the former US president is “gearing up for a battle” ahead of his scheduled court hearing on Tuesday in New York City. Trump is facing charges related to hush money payments made to a porn star, and plans to return to his Mar-a-Lago home in Florida after his hearing. He continues to deny any wrongdoing, and his lawyer has promised to fight any charges against him vigorously. Reports suggest Trump will face more than 30 charges related to business fraud over a $130,000 payment made in an attempt to buy Stormy Daniels’ silence over an alleged affair.

Trump is facing charges related to falsifying business records in the first degree, according to sources familiar with the case. The details of the charges remain under seal. Trump is reportedly preparing to fly to New York City to face the charges, and his lawyer has promised a vigorous defense. Law enforcement officials have been preparing for the hearing, including heightened security measures and the escorting of Trump by members of the US Secret Service. Trump is the first US president, sitting or former, to be charged with a criminal felony.