Former President Donald Trump is scheduled to have a pre-sentencing hearing with a probation officer on Monday, as he awaits his sentencing on July 11. This comes after Trump's conviction in his hush money trial last month, where he was found guilty of all 34 charges. The interview with the probation officer will be conducted virtually, and Trump's attorney Todd Blanche will be present, which is not typically the case for convicted defendants.

The pre-sentencing interview is part of the routine process that the probation department will use to compile a report for Judge Juan Merchan, who will determine Trump's punishment. It is not mandatory for Trump to cooperate with the investigation, but a negative inference can be drawn from his lack of cooperation. During the hearing, the defendant is usually asked about their conviction and basic background information like employment and criminal history.

Trump's legal team will also have the opportunity to submit letters of support from friends and family, as they work on preparing their sentencing recommendation. The team is expected to submit the recommendation on Thursday. Meanwhile, the Manhattan District Attorney's Office will submit its own memo, recommending the sentence it sees fit for Trump.

The potential sentences Trump faces range from probation to up to four years in state prison on each count, with a maximum of 20 years. Prosecutors have not sought to remand Trump into custody, meaning he remains free until sentencing.

In response to the pre-sentencing interview, Trump campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung stated that "President Trump and his legal team are already taking necessary steps to challenge and defeat the lawless Manhattan DA case." This indicates that they will continue to contest the charges brought against the former president.

As the first former president to be convicted of a felony, this case has garnered significant attention. Trump's sentencing will be closely watched, as it will set a precedent for future cases involving former presidents.