In Re Bledsoe

Relator Chad L. Bledsoe seeks mandamus relief from the probate court's oral order striking his motion in limine, trial exhibit list, fact witness list, trial summary, and proposed jury instructions, definitions, and questions because of his failure to comply with the court's docket control order. Bledsoe contends the probate court abused its discretion in striking his pretrial pleadings because: the order constitutes improper death penalty sanctions; he was denied due process of law in that he was never notified that his failure to comply with the order could result in the sanctions imposed; and the sanctions imposed were not "just" given the circumstances and the conduct of the real parties in interest. We conditionally grant in part, and deny in part, Bledsoe's petition for writ of mandamus.