Hunter Biden was found guilty on Tuesday of federal gun charges dating back to 2018. This conviction marks a significant development, but it is just the beginning of his legal challenges, especially as House Republicans continue their impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden.
Hunter Biden’s attorney, Abbe Lowell, stated that the legal team “will continue to vigorously pursue all the legal challenges available to Hunter.” These options include potentially challenging the underlying gun laws at the Supreme Court on constitutional grounds.
Despite the conviction, Hunter Biden faces additional pressure with an impending sentencing and another federal trial for alleged tax violations in California, set to begin in September, just weeks before the November elections in which his father seeks reelection.
Following his conviction on three federal gun charges, Hunter Biden expressed disappointment but gratitude for his family’s support. First Lady Jill Biden, frequently accompanied by Hunter’s wife Melissa Cohen, attended the trial.
Hunter Biden was convicted of lying on gun-purchasing paperwork in 2018 about his drug addiction and unlawfully possessing the firearm while using crack cocaine. He could face up to 25 years in prison, though a sentencing date has not been set.
President Biden, reportedly worried about his son’s legal issues, expressed support for Hunter and any potential legal appeals. “As I said last week, I am the president, but I am also a dad. Jill and I love our son, and we are so proud of the man he is today. So many families who have had loved ones battle addiction understand the feeling of pride seeing someone you love come out the other side and be so strong and resilient in recovery,” Biden said.
Immediately after the verdict, the President traveled from the White House to Wilmington, Delaware, to be with his family. “As I also said last week, I will accept the outcome of this case and will continue to respect the judicial process as Hunter considers an appeal. Jill and I will always be there for Hunter and the rest of our family with our love and support. Nothing will ever change that,” he added.
Hunter Biden plans to appeal his conviction, though his efforts may be constrained by financial pressures. Hollywood lawyer Kevin Morris, who has funded Biden’s legal defense since 2019, is reportedly running low on funds after loaning nearly $6 million to Hunter.
If Biden can sustain his legal defense, he may challenge the gun laws underlying his conviction at the Supreme Court. Legal commentators suggest he could argue his case on constitutional grounds, citing a federal appeals court ruling last year that struck down a law barring illegal drug users from possessing firearms.
Hunter Biden also faces a federal tax trial in California, starting in September, where he is charged with failing to pay at least $1.4 million in taxes over four years. The trial is expected to delve into his foreign business dealings, including his involvement with the Ukrainian energy company Burisma and a joint venture with CEFC China Energy.
Additionally, House Republicans leading the impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden view Hunter’s conviction as a step towards accountability. House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer emphasized the need for further investigation into the Biden family’s foreign business dealings. Last week, Republican leaders filed criminal referrals with the Justice Department for Hunter and his uncle James Biden for allegedly making false statements during impeachment inquiry depositions.
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