Rapid Verdict Took Biden Family by Surprise as They Rushed to the Courtroom

The speed of the verdict took nearly everyone by surprise — including the first lady, Jill Biden.

Court administrators cautioned reporters who were outside the courthouse in Wilmington, Del., to obey safety rules after many ran full speed into the building, causing a bottleneck at the metal detectors.

Jurors reached their verdict after just three hours and five minutes of deliberations.

As the verdict was read aloud — guilty on all three felony counts — Hunter Biden stood with arms crossed, grimly surveying the jury.

After jurors left the courtroom, Mr. Biden hugged his lawyers. Then he found his wife, Melissa Cohen Biden, put his hands on her arms, looked her in the eyes, and said, “Hey.” He kissed and hugged her.

Jill Biden, the first lady and Mr. Biden’s stepmother who attended most days of the trial, was not able to get to the courtroom in time for the verdict because of security delays. But she held Mr. Biden’s hand as he left the courthouse and got into a waiting vehicle without speaking to reporters.

His aunt was also unable to enter the courtroom when the verdict was announced. His uncle James Biden rushed to the front of the security line, insisting he should get priority as a family member. He was successful.