On Monday, September 22, 2025, the Supreme Court of North Dakota adopted a recommendation to transfer Attorney Paul J. Merkens from interim suspension to incapacitated status due to issues related to mental health and addiction recovery.
The case is entitled “Disciplinary Board of the Supreme Court of the State of North Dakota v. Paul J. Merkens,” with case no. 2025 ND 149.
Merkens had his law license suspended on September 26, 2024, pending the outcome of ongoing disciplinary proceedings.
The decision came after a report from a hearing panel of the disciplinary board, which found that Merkens had agreed to the stipulation for this transfer. The panel’s report indicated that he acknowledged the need for improved management of his mental health as part of his recovery process. The court noted that Merkens would be allowed to petition for a return to active status once he demonstrates sufficient progress in his condition.
Additionally, the Supreme Court ordered that Merkens participate in the North Dakota Lawyers Assistance Program and comply with specific disciplinary regulations. He is also required to pay $250 in costs related to the proceedings.
According to Avvo.com, Mr. Merkens is an attorney in Bismarck, North Dakota. He attended the University of North Dakota School of Law. He acquired his law license in North Dakota in 2012.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
