A nursing home's answer in a medical malpractice and wrongful death suit was properly struck because it failed for years to respond to discovery demands and court orders, a state appeals court has ruled.

Georgette Schiller, individually and as executrix of the estate of Bernice Schiller, sued Sunharbor Manor and related entities, for allegedly giving negligent care to Bernice Schiller that led to a leg infection, amputation and her death.

Nearly four years after bringing the 2011 suit, Schiller moved to strike defendants' answer. In 2015, Nassau County Supreme Court Justice Robert Bruno did so.