M.D.N.C. LR 83.4

(a) Imposition of Sanctions. If an attorney or a party fails to comply with a

local rule of this Court, the Court may impose sanctions against the attorney or party, or

both. The Court may make such orders as are just under the circumstances of the case,

including the following:

(1) an order that designated matters or facts shall be taken as established

for purposes of the action;

(2) an order refusing to allow the failing party to support or oppose

designated claims or defenses, or prohibiting the party from introducing

designated matters in evidence;

(3) an order striking out pleadings or parts thereof, or staying

proceedings until the rule is complied with, or dismissing the action or any part

thereof, or rendering a judgment by default against the failing party;

(4) an order imposing costs, including attorney's fees, against the party,

or the party's attorney, who has failed to comply with a local rule.

(b) Sanctions Within the Discretion of the Court. The imposition of

sanctions for violation of a local rule is discretionary with the Court. In considering the

imposition of sanctions, the Court may consider whether a party's failure was

substantially justified or whether other circumstances make the imposition of sanctions

inappropriate.