Contempt of court refers to any act that obstructs justice, disobeys court orders, or shows disrespect for judicial authority. It encompasses behavior inside or...
There are primarily two types: civil contempt (to compel compliance with an order) and criminal contempt (to punish for obstruction of justice). It can also be direct (in court) or indirect (outside court).
Examples include refusing to comply with a subpoena, disrupting court proceedings, violating a gag order, or making public statements that prejudice a trial.
Consequences can range from fines and monetary penalties to imprisonment, depending on the severity and nature of the contempt, aiming to compel compliance or punish disruptive behavior.
Yes, rulings of contempt of court can generally be appealed to a higher court, often challenging the factual basis, legality, or the penalty imposed by the finding.