WILMINGTON, Del. — Hunter Biden’s trial halted abruptly for the weekend after defense attorneys said they won’t call the president’s brother, James Biden, as a witness as expected.

Defense lawyer Abbe Lowell said in court that James Biden will not testify, nor would any other witnesses with the possible exception of the defendant. No reason was given for James Biden not being called as a witness. 

Mr. Lowell said Friday the defense team will weigh whether or not to put the first son on the stand, and they have until Monday to make that decision. If Hunter Biden doesn’t testify, the defense is expected to rest in his federal gun trial.

The announcement came shortly after jurors were dismissed early for the weekend ahead of what was expected to be emotional testimony from James Biden, who has been close to Hunter Biden and supported him through rehab for drug addiction. 

The jurors were dismissed Friday afternoon immediately upon returning from a lunch break. The jury will return Monday morning. 

• Jeff Mordock can be reached at jmordock@washingtontimes.com.