Former US President Donald Trump is facing trial in New York over alleged hush money payments intended to suppress information about extramarital affairs with adult film actress Stormy Daniels and Playboy model Karen McDougal prior to the 2016 presidential election. This marks the first time a US president has stood trial in a criminal case.

Trump’s former lawyer, Michael Cohen, is a central figure in the case, having facilitated the payments. Cohen, who was sentenced in 2018 for related crimes, claims he acted under Trump’s direction. The indictment includes allegations of falsifying business records and using a shell company for the payments.

Manhattan’s District Attorney Alvin Bragg has charged Trump under a 34-count indictment. Trump denies all allegations, asserting his innocence both regarding the payments and the affairs.

The trial coincides with Trump’s ongoing prominence in the Republican Party as a possible presidential candidate despite facing multiple legal challenges. The case is also examining additional claims, including payments concerning a former Trump Tower doorman who alleges another affair by Trump.

The proceedings are expected to last about six weeks with Trump potentially attending in person. The trial, taking place in the Manhattan Supreme Court, will focus on a range of testimonies and evidence, including those from Cohen and other key figures involved.