Merchan could impose other punishments instead of prison time, such as probation. Trump would have to report to the New York City Department of Probation in person on a regular basis, which would create a major scheduling snafu for the GOP presidential candidate on the campaign trail. If Trump committed other crimes under probation, he could be sent immediately to jail.
Trump’s conviction also means the charges against him are punishable by up to $5,000 per offense; if Judge Merchan decides to go that route, Trump could face up to $170,000 in fines .