Edwards lawyers argue for dismissal

RALEIGH, N.C., Oct. 6 (UPI) -- Lawyers for former U.S. John Edwards, D-N.C., say the criminal case against him should be dismissed at a hearing this month.

They'll get their chance to tell a federal judge why at an Oct. 26 hearing on whether his case should be dismissed or proceed toward trial, the Raleigh News and Observer reported.

Edwards, 58, faces charges he violated campaign finance laws by using funds from his unsuccessful 2008 presidential campaign from two wealthy supporters to conceal his pregnant mistress from the public. Prosecutors say the donations exceeded legal limits and amounted to campaign contributions because they were intended to keep the affair secret to preserve his presidential bid.

The payments went toward living, medical and other expenses for videographer Reille Hunter, with whom Edwards had an extramarital affair and a child.

His lawyers say he wanted to hide the affair and Hunter's pregnancy from his wife, Elizabeth Edwards, and that hundreds of thousands of dollars from his wealthy friends went to others, not him, and were gifts.

Defense lawyers deny a crime occurred and say the charges are unconstitutionally vague.

The lawyers also contend the case is an abuse of prosecutorial discretion meant to advance the political aspirations of the lead prosecutor, the News and Observer said.

Prosecutors denied the claims in court documents.