DEFAULT SANCTIONS; IMPOSITION OF COSTS

(a)       Default Sanctions. Failure of a party or counsel for a party to appear before the Court at a conference, complete the necessary preparations, or be prepared to proceed at the time set for trial or hearing may be considered an abandonment of the adversary proceeding or contested matter or a failure to prosecute or defend diligently, and an appropriate order of the Court may be entered against the defaulting party with respect to either a specific issue or the entire adversary proceeding or contested matter.

(b)       Imposition of Costs. If the Judge finds that the sanctions in subdivision (a) of this rule are either inadequate or unjust to the parties, the Judge may assess reasonable costs directly against the party or counsel whose action has obstructed the effective administration of the Court's business.

Comment

            This rule is derived from Former Local Bankruptcy Rule 21 and is an adaptation of General Rule 5(b) and (c) of the Former District Rules.