The schedule seemed stacked against Donald J. Trump: four criminal trials in four cities, all in the same year he is running for president.
But rather than doom Mr. Trump, the chaotic calendar might just save him.
Mr. Trump, who as president helped reshape the federal judiciary, has already persuaded the Supreme Court to delay his trial in Washington.
The case in Manhattan, where Mr. Trump is accused of covering up a sex scandal during and after the 2016 presidential campaign, was the only one not mired in potential postponements.
On Friday, Justice Juan M. Merchan, who is overseeing the case, delayed the trial at least three weeks, until mid-April.
Persons:
Donald J, Trump, Juan M, Merchan
Organizations:
Trump
Locations:
Washington, Florida, Georgia, Manhattan