The trial for the classified documents case between Special Counsel Jack Smith and former President Trump might be delayed. Smith has asked for a four-month extension and suggested December 11 as the new trial date. The reason behind the request is that Trump’s lawyers will need to obtain security clearances to access the classified information, and this process will require more time.

Interim security clearances could be granted within 48 hours as long as Trump’s attorneys fill out the required forms. However, getting specific clearances for individual documents might take between 40 and 65 days. If the trial is delayed, Trump could be in court just weeks before the 2024 presidential primary begins, which is expected to take place in mid-January.

Smith has requested a trial date postponement after U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon scheduled the trial for August 14. The special counsel has confirmed that they have communicated with Trump’s attorneys, and they don’t object to the proposed delay. However, Trump’s legal team is anticipated to file their own requests opposing the government’s preferred date.

“Even with the prompt production the government has arranged, the inclusion of additional time for defense counsel to review and digest the discovery, to make their own decisions about any production to the government, and for the government to review the same, is reasonable and appropriate,” the motion states.

President Trump has claimed that he did nothing wrong and was allowed to keep the documents according to the Presidential Records Act. He also criticized the prosecution, stating that the motivation behind it was political.