Rule 17-310. Answer.

A. Contents. The answer of the respondent-attorney shall contain the following: (1) a brief and plain statement by the respondent-attorney reflecting the respondent-attorney's admissions, denials and any other relevant and material matter that the respondent-attorney wishes to convey concerning each of the factual charges against the respondent-attorney; (2) any matter in mitigation; and (3) the names and addresses of the witnesses that the respondent-attorney proposes to call in the respondent-attorney's defense. B. Filing and service. Within twenty (20) days after service of the specification of charges, the respondent-attorney may file an answer to the charges. The answer shall be filed with the chair of the hearing committee. Copies shall be served upon the members of the designated hearing committee and opposing counsel. Service may be by mail. C. Failure to answer. If the respondent-attorney fails to answer the charges within twenty (20) days, in accordance with Paragraph B, or if the charges are not specifically denied in the answer, the charges will be deemed admitted. In this event, the sole issue to be determined by the hearing committee shall be the nature of the committee's recommendation to the Disciplinary Board after consideration of any facts in aggravation or mitigation of the respondent-attorney's misconduct.