Legal Definitions - consequential contempt

Consequential contempt is a type of contempt of court, which refers to conduct that defies the authority or dignity of a court or legislature. This conduct interferes with the administration of justice and is punishable by fine or imprisonment.

Consequential contempt can be indirect contempt, which is committed outside of court, such as when a party disobeys a court order. It is punishable only after proper notice to the contemnor and a hearing.

For example, if a witness in a court case refuses to answer a question from a judge or a lawyer, they could be held in consequential contempt. This conduct defies the authority of the court and interferes with the administration of justice.

Another example of consequential contempt is when a party disobeys a court order to produce evidence or to pay a fine. This conduct shows a disregard for the authority of the court and can be punished by fine or imprisonment.