Opinion ID: 534282
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Default Judgment as a Sanction

Text: 12 This court reviews the imposition of sanctions for an abuse of discretion. North American Watch v. Princess Ermine Jewels, 786 F.2d 1447, 1450 (9th Cir.1986). We cannot say that the trial court abused its discretion in this case. The Yusovs and their attorney consistently and willfully failed to obey court orders and follow the rules of procedure, resulting in great delay. A previous sanction of $3,880 in attorneys' fees had been ignored. The district court has an obligation to manage its docket, and may use sanctions against a party when necessary. The court found that no sanction short of striking the answer and entering default was sufficient. The default against the Yusovs, although harsh, was not an abuse of discretion under the egregious facts of this case. 13