Opinion ID: 1698263
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 17

Heading: motion for judgment on pleadings

Text: An attorney against whom formal charges have been filed is subject to a judgment on the pleadings if he or she fails to answer those charges. See State ex rel. Counsel for Dis. v. Lechner, 266 Neb. 948, 670 N.W.2d 457 (2003). The disciplinary rules provide that if no answer is filed, the matter may be disposed of by the Court on its own motion or on a motion for judgment on the pleadings so long as an opportunity for oral argument is given before disbarment is ordered. Neb. Ct. R. of Discipline 10(I) (rev.2005). In this proceeding, respondent did not answer the charges filed against him or file any pleadings or briefs and relator has moved this court for a judgment on the pleadings. We determine that the requirements of rule 10(I) have been satisfied. Having reviewed the record de novo, we conclude that the allegations contained in the formal charges have been established by clear and convincing evidence and that the motion of relator for judgment on the pleadings should be and is hereby granted.