In re Judicial Discipline and Disability Commission Cases

Summary

The Supreme Court of Arkansas orders the Executive Director of the Judicial Discipline and Disability Commission, Emily Abbott, to appear and show cause why she should not be held in contempt or otherwise sanctioned for failing to provide records required by a prior court order. The court sets a show-cause hearing for May 21, 2026, and requires any written response by May 11, 2026.

Holdings

1. Because the Executive Director had not fully complied with the court's December 11, 2025 order, and no objection, relieving order, or explanation excused the noncompliance, the court ordered her to appear and show cause why she should not be held in contempt or otherwise sanctioned.
2. Failure to appear at the scheduled show-cause hearing will result in a default finding of contempt and implementation of appropriate sanctions.

Questions Presented

1. Whether the Commission's Executive Director should be ordered to appear and show cause why she should not be held in contempt or otherwise sanctioned for failing to comply with the court's December 11, 2025 order.
2. Whether failure to appear at the show-cause hearing would support a default finding of contempt and appropriate sanctions.

Disposition

other