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contempt of court

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 Tennessee, 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, and sanctions are imposed to achieve compliance, rather than to punish. Criminal contempt, on the other hand, is an offense against the authority of the court, and punitive measures such as fines or jail time can be imposed. Under Tennessee law, the punishment for criminal contempt may include a fine up to $50 for each offense and/or imprisonment in the county jail for up to 10 days. However, if the contempt is committed outside the immediate view and presence of the court, it must be prosecuted on notice, which allows the accused to present a defense. The specific procedures and penalties for contempt are outlined in the Tennessee Code Annotated, particularly in sections 29-9-101 to 29-9-108, and can vary depending on the nature of the contemptuous behavior and the type of court involved.

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Divorce

contempt of court

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Tennessee State Code

Tennessee State Code

Divorce

contempt of court

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