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 South Dakota, contempt of court is addressed under state statutes and can be categorized as either civil or criminal contempt. Civil contempt generally involves failure to comply with a court order, and the primary remedy is to compel compliance with the court's directive. The court may impose fines or other penalties until the individual complies. Criminal contempt, on the other hand, involves actions that disrespect the court or obstruct the administration of justice, such as disrupting court proceedings or not following procedural orders. Criminal contempt can result in fines and incarceration. The specific procedures and penalties for contempt are outlined in South Dakota Codified Laws (SDCL), and the punishment must be proportionate to the contemptuous act. It's important to note that individuals have the right to due process, including notice and an opportunity to be heard, before being punished for contempt of court.