Judge Engoron Reflects on Trump Trial and Challenges Faced

Justice Arthur Engoron was on an early morning walk with his dog on January 11, 2024, when he saw numerous police lights near his home. The New York Supreme Court judge learned they were responding to a credible bomb threat at his residence.

Law enforcement asked if there were others in the house. Engoron confirmed that his wife and children were inside. He alerted his family, and they evacuated their home into the cold. Shortly after, Engoron was in court, presiding over a significant case involving former President Donald Trump.

This trial, known for its intense nature and Trump’s frequent outbursts, marked a significant point in Engoron’s career. Reflecting on his experiences in an interview with CBS News, Engoron discussed the challenges judges face today, including increased threats, leading to requests for higher security funding.

“Some might be less inclined to become judges due to the heightened threat level,” Engoron said. He added, “Those are probably not the people who should be judges, though.” The early bomb threat was just one of multiple threats Engoron faced, including antisemitic and homophobic harassment. He continues to receive hostile calls and even once received an envelope with white powder.

“Judges need to remember: We cannot retaliate. That’s part of the job,” Engoron emphasized.

The courtroom dynamics during Trump’s trial were tense. Criticism from Trump and his supporters did not deter Engoron, but he took serious action when attacks extended to his staff, implementing a gag order on Trump, which was repeated in two of his criminal cases.

Despite these challenges, Engoron found recognition outside the courtroom. Whether from strangers or public figures, including Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, many acknowledged his role in the trial.

Now retired from the New York judiciary, Engoron moved to Phillips Nizer LLP as senior counsel. Looking back, he cherishes his time as a judge, valuing the opportunity to serve justice. “Being a judge is the greatest job, you help society and set precedents,” he noted.

Throughout the trial, Engoron faced criticism for interacting with the media, but he dismissed it as trivial. He allowed Trump’s team to present their arguments extensively to avoid errors in judgment. “I let people talk, gathering more information,” he said, emphasizing a method that assists with fair rulings and minimizes appeals.

In his formal rulings, Engoron was direct and assertive, finding Trump and his company liable for fraud. Though an appeals court later removed the financial penalties, they upheld the fraud findings, and further appeals are ongoing.

Engoron remains unbothered by potential impacts on his legacy, expressing satisfaction with his tenure. “I tried to be fair and even-handed,” he reflected. “It was a net positive. I was glad I got to do it.”