Hunter Biden, son of U.S. President Joe Biden, pleaded guilty on Thursday to nine federal tax-related charges in a Los Angeles court. The unexpected move avoids a potentially contentious trial, with sentencing set for December 16.

• Biden’s attorney, Abbe Lowell, described the plea as a “brave and loving decision,” adding that it prioritized his family’s well-being. Hunter Biden did not address reporters but issued a statement criticizing prosecutors from Special Counsel David Weiss’s office for focusing on “dehumanizing” him rather than seeking justice.

“I will not subject my family to more pain, more invasions of privacy, and needless embarrassment,” he said.

Initially, Biden sought to enter an Alford plea, allowing him to maintain his innocence while acknowledging sufficient evidence against him. However, prosecutors objected, leading him to make an open plea, admitting guilt to all charges without a sentencing agreement.

In court, U.S. District Judge Mark C. Scarsi asked Biden to confirm his guilt on all counts. After a 56-page indictment was read, Biden affirmed his responsibility and pleaded guilty.

The Department of Justice announced that Biden could face up to 17 years in prison, although the final sentence will likely be less and will depend on federal guidelines and other factors.

Lowell downplayed the significance of the case, calling it “unusual” for federal prosecution and likening the charges to offenses committed by “millions of Americans.” He emphasized that the defense would explore legal challenges on appeal, despite Biden’s acceptance of responsibility.

In his statement, Biden acknowledged, “I failed to file and pay my taxes on time. For that, I am responsible. Addiction is not an excuse, but it is an explanation for some of my failures.” However, some fraudulent filings occurred after he had become sober, adding complexity to the case.

This plea concludes a key phase of a high-profile legal battle but leaves open the possibility of appeals and further legal scrutiny. For now, the case moves to the sentencing phase, with significant public and political attention focused on the outcome.