Judge Arthur Engoron is reportedly the subject of an investigation by the state of New York, as prompted by a renowned real estate attorney in New York City who asserts that he provided the judge with unsolicited advice.

In March, former President Donald Trump was ordered by Engoron to pay a $454 million judgment after 30 lenders denied his application, as The Daily Mail reported.

Trump, who often compared Engoron to individuals who were "crazed" and "corrupt," deposited $175 million in collateral prior to the deadline in order to prevent the seizure of assets while he appeals the decision.

The Attorney in Question

Adam Leitman Bailey, a real estate attorney from New York, stated publicly at the time of the decision that he advised Judge Engoron to "get it right" three weeks prior to the ruling.

A spokesman for Engoron denied the claim and stated he was "wholly uninfluenced" by Bailey, but NBC New York reports that the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct is investigating whether he violated any rules.

Bailey stated on the day of the ruling, mid-February, that he had spoken with Engoron three weeks prior.

"I saw him in the corner [at the courthouse] and I told my client, 'I need to go.' And I walked over and we started talking … I wanted him to know what I think and why…I really want him to get it right."

The Story Kept Straight

Bailey maintains that he is not an admirer of Trump and has no affiliation with the lawsuits or cases brought against the president; however, he has been involved in litigation "hundreds of times" in front of Engoron.

He asserts that he instructed Engoron to render an accurate verdict because a decision penalizing Trump with such a hefty fine could have adverse economic effects on New York.

Bailey further asserted that Engoron "had a lot of questions, you know, about certain cases" during their conversation.

A spokesman for Engoron has categorically denied any improper conduct.

"No ex parte conversation concerning this matter occurred between Justice Engoron and Mr. Bailey or any other person. The decision Justice Engoron issued February 16 was his alone, was deeply considered, and was wholly uninfluenced by this individual," said Al Baker

Letal Jargon

When an attorney and a judge speak "ex parte," none of the other personnel involved in the case are in attendance.

"A judge shall not initiate, permit, or consider ex parte communications, or consider other communications made to the judge outside the presence of the parties or their lawyers," the New York State Rules of Judicial Conduct state.