Contempt of court is broadly defined as disobedience to or disrespect of a court by acting in opposition to its authority. Contempt of court may be punished by the court with civil penalties (fines) and criminal punishment (confinement in jail).
In Mississippi, contempt of court is an act that defies, disrespects or insults the authority or dignity of a court. There are two types of contempt: civil and criminal. Civil contempt is typically used to compel someone to comply with a court order, such as paying child support or alimony, and may continue until the party complies with the court's order. Criminal contempt, on the other hand, punishes behavior that obstructs the administration of justice or that insults the court, such as refusing to testify, providing false information, or causing a disturbance in the courtroom. Penalties for criminal contempt can include fines, imprisonment, or both. The specific statutes governing contempt of court in Mississippi can be found in the Mississippi Code, and the procedures and penalties can vary depending on whether the contempt is considered civil or criminal.