In a surprising turn of events, Judge Arthur Engoron, presiding over the civil fraud case against former President Trump, was briefly replaced by Justice Judith McMahon before being reinstated just hours later. Sources close to Trump's legal team expressed concern over this unusual switch, which occurred via automated court emails. The case, brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James, alleges "persistent and repeated fraud" and other financial misconduct. Trump has criticized Judge Engoron's handling of the case, particularly the valuation of Mar-a-Lago at $18 million, a figure Trump disputes as significantly undervalued. The case is currently under appeal, with Trump's lawyers arguing the ruling is "draconian, unlawful, and unconstitutional." They claim the lawsuit misinterprets consumer protection laws, citing a lack of victims or complaints from lenders and insurers. Additionally, they argue the case violates the statute of limitations due to the age of some transactions involved. The appeals court appears open to reversing or reducing the $454 million judgment against Trump.

Justice Arthur Engoron presides over the civil fraud trial of the Trump Organization. (Erin Schaff/Pool/AFP via Getty Images)

Former President Trump and Judge Engoron (Fox News)

Former President Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Fla.  (Charles Trainor Jr./Miami Herald/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)

New York Attorney General Letitia James (AP Photo/Brittainy Newman, File)

Former President Trump at Mar-a-Lago. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)