NEWARK, N.J. — A decision is looming in the bribery trial of Senator Bob Menendez that could significantly alter the legal landscape for future corruption cases.

After hearing six weeks of testimony and viewing dozens of e-mails and documents that prosecutors allege show Menendez schemed to help a wealthy friend in exchange for free plane rides and luxury hotel stays, jurors may never get to deliberate on those points.

That will depend on whether US District Judge William Walls decides Monday to dismiss the bulk of the indictment against the New Jersey Democrat and his longtime friend, Florida ophthalmologist Salomon Melgen.

At issue is a 2016 Supreme Court ruling that overturned the conviction of a former Virginia governor, Bob McDonnell, and narrowed the definition of bribery. Walls surprised some when he appeared to put to rest what was expected to be the central issue: whether Menendez’s interactions with officials could be considered ‘‘official acts’’ under the new definition of bribery.

Defense attorneys contend the McDonnell decision requires a bribe be given in exchange for an official taking an action or agreeing to on a specific matter.

Associated Press