Contempt of court is an offense with serious legal consequences, and one that should not be taken lightly. This term can refer to an intentional disregard or violation of laws, rules, regulations, court orders, and so on. Anyone who knowingly or willfully disrespects the court and/or fails to adhere to an order may end up facing a contempt of court charge. It is up to the judge to decide if a person’s behavior meets the criteria for contempt.
Contempt of court is typically divided into two distinct categories: civil and criminal. Civil contempt is when someone willfully refuses to comply with a court order, such as not paying a child support-related fine. Criminal contempt, on the other hand, is typically more serious and covers a range of conduct that can be considered contemptuous – shouting at a judge, obstructing an investigation, bribing or trying to influence a witness or court officer, and so on.
How Is Contempt Punished?
The punishment for contempt of court can depend on the type of contempt. It could range from monetary fines and community service to jail sentences and probation. In cases of criminal contempt, the punishments are more severe and often include prison time. The judge has the authority to determine the duration and severity of the punishment.
Modern Examples of Contempt of Court
One of the most widely publicized examples of contempt of court in recent years was when former White House strategist Steve Bannon was indicted in the U.S. for trying to defraud activists who had donated to an online crowdfunding campaign. Bannon was ultimately charged with two counts of criminal contempt when he refused to comply with a court order requiring him to appear at a hearing. The incident was seen as a major setback for President Trump’s attempts to discredit the Mueller investigation.
In another high profile case, former pharmaceutical CEO Martin Shkreli was found in contempt of court after he refused to turn over a one-of-a-kind Wu-Tang Clan album. After months of delays, Shkreli was ordered to appear in court and pay a fine of $75,000.
Conclusion
Contempt of court is a serious offense with real consequences. It is important to understand the legal implications of contempt before engaging in activities that may be seen as contemptuous. Individuals who are charged with contempt must understand the charges and any punishments that may be handed down. When in doubt, seek legal advice from a qualified attorney.