The defense of former U.S. Senator John Edwards is set to commence on Monday, with his lawyers attempting to refute claims that the two-time presidential candidate used up to $1 million in donations to conceal his pregnant mistress during the 2008 presidential campaign.
The atmosphere in a Greensboro, North Carolina, courtroom is expected to heat up as the defense calls witnesses; among them will be Edwards' daughter Cate, who has been a supporter of her father.
Also on the list of defense witnesses is Rielle Hunter, Edwards' mistress, although it is not certain as to whether she will indeed take the stand. If Hunter does testify, her testimony is expected to cause an electric wave among media. It is still uncertain if Edwards will take the stand to defend himself.
Edwards is facing the possibility of a prison sentence and a hefty fine if convicted of the six felony charges, including failing to report money received as donations.
The trial enters the fourth week of business after the prosecution wrapped up their side of the case, having presented two dozen witnesses, including chief witness Andrew Young - a former aide to John Edwards during the 2008 presidential campaign.
The Edwards defense team is expected to focus on refuting the testimony Young, who told the courtroom he helped hide Hunter from the public and the press and said he was even asked to claim paternity of Hunter's child to protect Edwards.
The judge of the trial, Judge Catherine Eagles, rejected a motion by Edwards' defense team to dismiss the charges against him.
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