In re Owen

Summary

The Supreme Court, Appellate Division, Second Department granted the Grievance Committee’s motion to deem disciplinary charges established after Edward J. Owen failed to answer the petition or oppose the motion. The court suspended Owen indefinitely, effective immediately, and directed him to cease practicing law and comply with applicable rules governing suspended attorneys.

Holdings

1. Because respondent was properly served and failed to answer, seek an adjournment, oppose the motion, or otherwise respond, the charges in the verified petition were deemed established.
2. Respondent was suspended from the practice of law for an indefinite period, effective immediately and continuing until further order of the Court.

Questions Presented

1. Whether the Grievance Committee's motion should be granted and the disciplinary charges deemed established based on respondent's default.
2. What discipline should be imposed for the established charges.

Disposition

other