On Friday, February 14, 2025, the Supreme Court of Minnesota suspended Attorney Courtney J. Ernston for a minimum of 30 days due to professional misconduct. The suspension follows a disciplinary petition filed by the Director of the Office of Lawyers Professional Responsibility, which accused Ernston of failing to adequately respond to discovery requests and for making knowingly false and misleading statements related to those requests.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of Courtney J. Ernston,” with case no. A24-0601.
The court’s decision came after a thorough review of the case, which included an evidentiary hearing conducted by a referee. The referee determined that Ernston indeed committed the alleged misconduct and noted one aggravating factor in the case. In a stipulation for discipline, both Ernston and the Director agreed to the findings and conclusions established by the referee, waiving their rights to further briefing and oral arguments before the court.
As part of the ruling, the court ordered that Ernston’s suspension would take effect 14 days from the date of the order. During this period, she is required to notify clients, opposing counsel, and relevant tribunals about her suspension, as mandated by Rule 26 of the Rules on Lawyers Professional Responsibility (RLPR). Additionally, Ernston must pay $900 in costs associated with the disciplinary proceedings.
Upon the completion of her suspension, Ernston will be eligible for reinstatement, provided she meets specific conditions. She must file an affidavit with the Clerk of the Appellate Courts no less than 15 days before the end of the suspension period, confirming her compliance with continuing legal education requirements and adherence to the rules regarding notice of suspension.
Furthermore, within one year of the order, Ernston is required to submit proof of passing the Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination, a prerequisite for reinstatement to the practice of law in Minnesota. Failure to comply with these requirements will result in an automatic suspension.
The Disposition states:
“IT IS HEREBY ORDERED THAT: Respondent Courtney J. Ernston is suspended from the practice of law for a minimum of 30 days, effective 14 days from the date of this order.”
According to avvo.com, Ms. Ernston is a foreclosure attorney in Saint Paul, Minnesota. She acquired her law license in Minnesota in 2014.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
