Marine Le Pen, the leader of France's far-right National Rally party, has been found guilty in an embezzlement trial by a Paris court.

The ruling was delivered on Monday, declaring that Le Pen misappropriated public funds during her tenure as a Member of the European Parliament.

The court's decision has resulted in an immediate prohibition on her seeking public office.

Le Pen has been a prominent figure in French politics, leading her party through a number of electoral campaigns, including two presidential runs.

Following the verdict, her political allies expressed strong criticism of the judicial process, claiming that it reflects political biases against her party.

The legal judgment adds a significant chapter to Le Pen's political trajectory, which has been characterized by her controversial stance on immigration, national identity, and European integration.

While she has attempted to soften her party’s image and appeal to a broader electorate, the verdict poses a critical setback to her ambitions.

The implications of the court's ruling may extend beyond Le Pen herself, potentially affecting the National Rally's position in upcoming elections.

Politicians from various parties have begun to react to the verdict, signaling potential shifts in the French political landscape.

Legal experts suggest that Le Pen may seek to appeal the decision, a process that could prolong the judicial proceedings and keep the case within public discourse.

To this point, Le Pen has not publicly disclosed her next steps following the verdict.

The ruling takes place amid heightened scrutiny of political fundraising and ethical conduct in French politics, reflecting broader concerns about transparency and accountability among public officials.