Donald Trump ally Steve Bannon will stand trial beginning Dec. 9 on charges he defrauded donors to an online effort to raise money for a wall along the U.S. southern border.

During a brief hearing on Tuesday, prosecutors said they would take three to four days to present evidence. Defense attorneys expected their case to last two days.

Bannon, who is currently serving a federal prison sentence for contempt of Congress, did not attend the hearing.

"Mr. Bannon was excused by the court," Judge April Newbauer said.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.