Striking a pleading is a drastic remedy and is only warranted "where a clear showing has been made that the noncompliance with a discovery order was willful, contumacious or due to bad faith" (Corner Realty 30/7 v. Bernstein Mgt. Corp., 249 A.D.2d 191, 193, see also, Washington v. Alco Auto Sales, 199 A.D.2d 165). Here, defendant-appellant's failure to comply with the discovery order and appear for deposition was due to law office failure. There is no evidence indicating willful or contumacious conduct or an intent to abandon the defense. The motion court, therefore, erred in striking the answer.
THIS CONSTITUTES THE DECISION AND ORDER OF SUPREME COURT, APPELLATE DIVISION, FIRST DEPARTMENT.