Trump faces historic hush-money trial

Hello. Earlier today prospective jurors made their way into a packed New York courtroom, marking the start of Donald Trump's hush-money trial. At least 50 of them have already been excused after they said they could not be impartial - more on our live page. We're also reporting on Sudan's civil war, coral reefs and Tesla layoffs. But first, an update on Israel and the Middle East.

QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Picking the jury for a historic trial

So far the focus has been on what evidence can be shown to jurors. Credit: Getty Images

Donald Trump has spent the day in court for the start of his hush-money trial, the first criminal trial in history to be faced by a former US president. It is expected to last at least six weeks - with former prosecutors predicting well over a week could be dedicated to the complicated task of selecting a jury.

What is the jury selection going to look like?

Because of the high-profile nature of the trial, as many as 500 people from New York's Manhattan and neighbouring Roosevelt Island could be chosen as prospective jurors. From this group, the defence and the prosecution - overseen by Justice Juan Merchan - will select 12 people and several alternates to be seated.

How are the jurors picked?

The main task will be to weed out jurors who will not be impartial. Hundreds of prospective jurors filled a questionnaire to disclose which news outlets they read and what podcasts they listen to, or whether they have ever attended a rally for the former president. They will also be asked if they support or consider themselves a part of any right or left-wing radical groups.

Will the prosecution and Mr Trump have their say?

Prosecutors and Mr Trump's legal team will be able to challenge those that they don't want to be included on the jury. Each side has 10 "peremptory" challenges, jurors they can dismiss for no particular reason, said former Manhattan prosecutor Diana Florence. Both Mr Trump and the District Attorney's Office have an unlimited number of "for cause" challenges, meaning they need a valid reason to dismiss those jurors.

THE BIG PICTURE

Coral turns white from deadly ocean heat

Coral bleaching is a sign of illness and decay. Credit: AIMS

US marine scientists say the fourth global mass coral bleaching event is under way, owing to high sea temperatures. Across the oceans, reefs are turning white, affecting sea life as a whole. Researchers tell our climate reporter Georgina Rannard that coral as we know it will permanently change.

And finally... in Australia

A story involving a couple, their dog, and a magpie dubbed Molly has ended in an emotional reunion. Juliette Wells and Reece Mortensen had rescued Molly when she was a chick and documented her relationship with their dog on an Instagram account that accrued a large following. It eventually attracted attention from the authorities, who took the magpie away as the couple didn't have the right permits. Six weeks later and paperwork secured, Molly has returned home.