Weinstein faces trial again in Los Angeles in October on unrelated charges.
Harvey Weinstein arrives at the Manhattan Criminal Court, on February 24, 2020 in New York City.New York Court of Appeals Chief Judge Janet DiFiore issued the ruling granting Weinstein a criminal leave application, a court spokesman told NBC, more than one year after Weinstein was sentenced to 23 years in state prison.
Weinstein’s conviction, which stems from allegations from accusers Jessica Mann and Mimi Haley, could be vacated, upheld, or changed, or a new trial could be ordered, and oral arguments are expected to be held next year. DiFiore granted the opportunity for the appeal on the grounds that there are “questions of law” that should be further reviewed by the Court of Appeals, according to theWeinstein previously argued that testimony from women who were not victims should not have been admitted, and that a juror who allegedly lied about writing a book on predatory men should have been dismissed.
Weinstein’s lawyer, Arthur Aidala, said he is “hopeful the entire court will find that Mr. Weinstein did not receive a fair trial and reverse his conviction," and that his client maintains his innocence. Weinstein is preparing to face trial again in Los Angeles in October over rape and sexual assault charges, which he has pleaded not guilty to.The uncovering of widespread sexual abuse allegations against Weinstein in 2017 sparked the #MeToo movement, and served as a catalyst that brought similar claims against powerful figures in nearly every industry. Over 80 accusers have come forward against Weinstein.