Legal Definitions - judicial contempt

Judicial contempt is a type of contempt that 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.

For example, if a person disobeys a court order, they can be held in judicial contempt. This can include refusing to answer a question in court or disrupting court proceedings with disorderly behavior or insolent language.

There are two types of judicial contempt: civil contempt and criminal contempt. Civil contempt is the failure to obey a court order that was issued for another party's benefit. The usual sanction is to confine the contemnor until he or she complies with the court order. Criminal contempt, on the other hand, is an act that obstructs justice or attacks the integrity of the court. The purpose of criminal-contempt proceedings is to punish repeated or aggravated failure to comply with a court order.

Overall, judicial contempt is a serious offense that can result in fines or imprisonment. It is important to respect the authority of the court and follow court orders to avoid being held in contempt.