When Will Jefferson Face The Music?

T-P:

A Virginia appeals court has agreed to expedite its consideration of Rep. William Jefferson's appeal to dismiss 14 of the 16 criminal charges now pending against the New Orleans Democrat.

But how quickly the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals takes the case may be determined by whether it agrees to hold oral arguments this summer -- a time when the court usually isn't in session -- or when it reconvenes in September.

Until the appeals court acts, the criminal trial for the congressman, originally scheduled to begin in January, remains on hold.