### Federal Appeals Court Vacates Michael Avenatti’s 14-Year Sentence

In a significant legal development, a federal appeals panel has nullified the 14-year prison sentence of Michael Avenatti, the suspended lawyer who gained notoriety for representing adult film actress Stormy Daniels in her legal battles against former President Donald Trump.

The decision, rendered by a three-judge panel of the 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals on Wednesday, concluded that the initial sentencing was predicated on an erroneous calculation of the financial loss involved. Consequently, the case has been remanded to a lower court for reconsideration of Avenatti's sentence.

The panel also addressed whether Avenatti's sentence should run concurrently with the existing prison terms he is already serving. These include time for misappropriating proceeds from Daniels’ book deal—relating to her suit to void a confidentiality agreement with Trump—and for his attempt to extort funds from Nike.

Avenatti's legal representative, H. Dean Steward, expressed optimism following the ruling, stating, "Mr. Avenatti is encouraged by the ruling of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals today. He looks forward to the hearing ordered by the Court."

Officials from the US Attorney's office in Los Angeles, which handled Avenatti's prosecution, chose not to issue a comment regarding the court’s decision.

Avenatti's legal troubles began compounding following his suspension from practicing law in California. Representing himself in court, Avenatti pled guilty in 2022 to four counts of wire fraud and a tax-related charge, opting to do so without a plea agreement with federal prosecutors. His stated motive was to accept responsibility and shield his family from further dishonor.

Prosecutors revealed that Avenatti secured settlement payments for his clients but then diverted those funds to accounts under his control, using the money to support his extravagant lifestyle.

The case now awaits a new sentencing hearing, which will re-evaluate the penalties Avenatti faces for his actions.