Federal Court Orders New Sentence for Avenatti

A federal appeals court has vacated Michael Avenatti's 14-year sentence for defrauding clients, citing errors in the trial court's calculations. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals found that the trial judge improperly applied an obstruction of justice enhancement and did not adequately consider the value of Avenatti's legal services and payments made to victims. Avenatti, who gained fame for representing Stormy Daniels against Donald Trump, is currently serving a combined 19-year prison term for multiple convictions, including theft from Daniels. The appeals court has ordered a resentencing, which may allow for a shorter term and potentially run concurrently with his other sentences. Avenatti expressed gratitude for the decision, claiming his previous sentence was unjust and a violation of his rights. The specifics of the resentencing will be determined by U.S. District Judge James Selna in California.