Former President Donald Trump's legal team has requested a New York judge to recuse himself from a case in which Trump was ordered to pay nearly $454 million. The lawyers allege that the judge engaged in 'prohibited communications' with a real estate lawyer regarding the case before issuing his decision.
In a series of court filings, Trump's attorneys cited an interview given by the real estate lawyer, Adam Bailey, in which Bailey mentioned speaking with the judge about the case prior to the verdict being rendered. Trump's lawyers argue that this communication raises concerns about the judge's impartiality and fairness in the case.
The judge, Arthur Engoron, is currently overseeing a monitor appointed to supervise the Trump Organization's finances. Trump's legal team is seeking either the judge's recusal from the case or an evidentiary hearing to investigate the reported conversation between the judge and the real estate lawyer.
Bailey, in response to the allegations, stated that he only discussed the judge's summary judgment decision with reporters and did not believe that sharing his personal views on the decision was inappropriate. He expressed regret over the situation and mentioned feeling deceived by the circumstances.
The court spokesman denied any ex parte conversation between Justice Engoron and Mr. Bailey, emphasizing that the judge's decision was made independently and without influence from external parties. The New York Attorney General's office declined to comment on the matter.
These developments come after the judge's ruling against Trump in February, ordering him to pay a substantial sum. The legal battle continues as Trump's legal team challenges the judge's involvement in the case.
