(GREENSBORO) -- After attorneys argued on Wednesday for the dismissal of charges in a federal criminal case against former presidential candidate John Edwards, a judge on Thursday denied the request.

Edwards is charged with using campaign funds to cover up a relationship with Rielle Hunter during his unsuccessful bid for the White House. Prosecutors allege that false campaign finance reports were filed.

Edwards has pleaded not guilty. With the ruling of U.S. District Court Judge Catherine C. Eagles on Thursday, the trial will move forward. The trial is scheduled to begin in January in Greensboro.