A court in the state of New York says it will sentence US President-elect Donald Trump for his hush money conviction on January 10, before his inauguration.

Trump was convicted last May for falsifying business records to cover up hush money paid to an adult film star. He became the first person to have served as US president to be convicted of a crime.

The court had postponed the sentencing, citing a possible impact on Trump's presidential election campaign. It also considered the request by Trump's defense lawyers to cancel the verdict. However, the sentencing date was announced in a written decision on Friday.

The court said it recognizes the importance of balancing what it called the "seemingly competing" factors of "ensuring that the Executive Branch is free to fully dispense the duties of the President and safeguard the interests of the Nation," and ensuring that "the Supreme Court's ruling and the citizenry's expectation be honored that all are equal and no one is above the law."

In an unusual move, the court announced ahead of the sentencing its "inclination to not impose any sentence of incarceration."

The court also said it will allow Trump to appear at his sentencing either in person or virtually.

US media say Trump's defense lawyers may try to stop the sentencing and it could be postponed until after he has completed his new term.

After the court's decision, Trump reacted sharply. He said in a social media post, "This illegitimate political attack is nothing but a Rigged Charade." He accused the judge of issuing an order that is "knowingly unlawful," and "goes against our Constitution." Trump also said, "It is time to end the Lawfare once and for all."