New York Courts to release daily transcripts of Trump trial

Donald Trump watches with his attorney Todd Blanche/REUTERS/Jane Rosenberg

The New York Courts announced it will publish daily transcripts of former President Donald Trump’s trial in Manhattan, according to a press release. 

“With current law restricting the broadcasting of trial proceedings and courtroom space for public spectators very limited, the release of the daily transcripts on the court system’s website is the best way to provide the public a direct view of the proceedings in this historic trial,” said Chief Administrative Judge Joseph Zayas in the press release published Monday.

“This measure is in the interest of the public good and aligns with the court system’s commitment to judicial transparency and its ongoing efforts to enhance public access to, and understanding of, the courts and justice system.”

Trump was back in court on Monday for his second week of the trial, which included hearing from the first witness called by the district attorney’s office, former media publisher David Pecker.

Trump is expected next back in court on Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. The day will begin with the judge overseeing the case, Juan Merchan, holding a hearing on the prosecution's request that Trump be held in contempt for violating a gag order that bans him from speaking publicly about witnesses and family members of court officials.

The court will then continue to hear testimony from Pecker.

First Deputy Chief Administrative Judge Norman St. George added in the New York Courts’ press release that the “historic case” has created “unparalleled public interest,” that required the “historic step by the court system” to release daily transcripts.

“I am pleased to join Chief Administrative Judge Zayas in announcing that the trial transcripts –providing a word-for-word account of the proceedings–will be posted daily on our website, giving the public ready access to the full, accurate court record. This will serve to enhance public understanding of the trial with minimum disruption to the courtroom proceedings,” St. George said.

The press release explained a certified transcript of each day’s proceeding will be posted online before the end of the next business day.