Opinion ID: 2386034
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 19

Heading: respondent's motion to dismiss based on laches

Text: The Commission's Petition for Disciplinary Action recites that Bar Counsel was notified on March 16, 1978, that the Review Board on December 15, 1977, had directed that charges be filed against the Respondent. The Petition for Disciplinary Action was filed in the Court of Appeals of Maryland on February 6, 1980. Respondent contends that there was an unreasonable and unjustifiable delay in the institution of these proceedings which has resulted in prejudice to the Respondent. While conceding that there is no Statute of Limitations applicable to disciplinary proceedings, Respondent contends that such proceedings are equitable in nature and that the instant Petition should be dismissed because the Commission is guilty of laches.