Legal win for Menendez: He can appeal some corruption charges

U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez of New Jersey will be able to appeal parts of his indictment on corruption charges.

The 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Philadelphia ruled last Friday that Menendez can appeal the charges based on his argument that it stemmed from routine legislative work protected by the Constitution's speech or debate clause.

That law shields elected officials from being questioned by prosecutors about legislative work.

He can also appeal on an argument over separation of powers.

The Democrat is charged with accepting campaign donations and gifts in exchange for political influence. He has pleaded not guilty and argues that his actions weren't specifically to benefit co-defendant Salomon Melgen.

Menendez's arguments could wind their way to the U.S. Supreme Court.

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