RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) -- Former Governor Bob McDonnell and his wife Maureen are expected in court Monday to hear a federal judge deliver a significant ruling in the corruption case against them.
The McDonnells are facing 14 felony counts, including wire fraud and improperly receiving large sums of money and gifts from a local businessman. The couple pleaded not guilty to all charges and hope to have the charges dismissed.
Lawyers for the McDonnells argued in motions that nothing was done illegally by accepting gifts, and that politicians are allowed to receive unlimited gifts in Virginia.
Lawyers also say the fact that the two are married could potentially jeopardize testimonies, so separate trials will most likely be requested. The defense also will ask for evidence from investigations that state agencies collected as well as an expanded jury selection process.
CBS 6 legal analyst Todd Stone says a complete dismissal is highly unlikely.
"If there is not enough evidence presented in the courtroom, then it should be dismissed, but to do it before trial. It's basically unheard of and it's something I wouldn't expect to be granted."
The former Governor's fall from grace in the public eye was swift. McDonnell once boasted one of the highest approval ratings of any Governor in the country, and was on the short list for possible running mates in Mitt Romney's 2012 presidential campaign.
McDonnell and his wife were indicted only a few weeks after he left office. The former Governor has accepted a teaching position at Liberty University.
If the case goes to trial, it is scheduled to begin in July. The decisions on the motions before the court Monday will likely set the framework for how each side will strategically handle the case moving forward.
The McDonnells are expected in court at 10 a.m. Monday.
Depend on CBS 6 News for complete coverage of this important story.
