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Simple English definitions for legal terms
contempt
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A quick definition of contempt:
Contempt is when someone does something wrong that disrupts or stops a court case or order. It's also called contempt of court. If someone doesn't do what a court tells them to do, they can be charged with contempt. This is to make sure that the court is respected and justice can be done. There are two types of contempt: direct and indirect. Direct contempt is when someone does something wrong in front of the court, like not showing up when they're supposed to. Indirect contempt is when someone disobeys a court order outside of the court. Contempt can also be civil or criminal, depending on the reason for the charge. Punishments for contempt can include fines or even going to jail.
A more thorough explanation:
Contempt, also known as contempt of court, refers to behavior that disrupts or obstructs an official proceeding or order and can result in punishment. The purpose of recognizing contempt of court is to maintain the dignity of the courts and ensure the uninterrupted administration of justice.
Contempt of court can be classified as direct or indirect. Direct contempt of court is an act of contempt committed knowingly in the immediate view and presence of the court. For example, failure to appear in compliance with a summons is a direct contempt of court. Indirect contempt of court is any contempt that does not fall within direct contempt. For example, failure to comply with probationary orders outside of the court is an indirect contempt of court.
Contempt of court can also be classified as either civil contempt or criminal contempt. Civil contempt is used to coerce the contemnor to comply with a court's order(s), while criminal contempt is used to punish the contemnor for disobedience. Punishments for contempt include imprisonment and fines.
Classifying contempt is important as different categories of contempt carry different procedural safeguards and punishments. For example, an individual charged with criminal contempt is afforded some of the same rights as a criminal defendant, while civil contempt requires only basic due process protections. Punishments for civil contempt are conditional, meaning the individual can avoid the punishment by complying with the court's order, while punishments for criminal contempt are generally unconditional and definite.
If a witness refuses to answer questions during a trial, they can be charged with contempt of court. This is an example of direct contempt of court because the disobedient conduct was performed in the immediate view and presence of the court.