Contempt of Court:

Pursuant to the relevant case authorities, Contempt in the face of the Court is an act which has the tendency to interfere with or undermine the authority, performance or dignity of the courts or those who participate in their proceedings.

There are varying forms of Contempt which include Contempt in the face of the Court, Contempt by publication, scandalizing the Court and disobedience of Court orders. Examples of Contempt include, but are not limited to the following:

• Abusing and swearing at a Magistrate;
• Filming witnesses with a view to intimidate;
• Prevaricating or refusing to answer questions;
• Refusing to take an oath in Court and or give evidence;
• Refusing to leave the court when directed to do so; and
• Disobeying court orders including subpoena orders.

The law accepts that certain factual situations which concern the law are extremely distressing and often cause irrationality, vulnerability and emotionally driven reactions within the Court room. While it is not an offence to be angry or emotional before judicial authorities, anger should be expressed in appropriate language and measure to prevent the offence of Contempt.

If you require assistance with a Contempt of Court legal matter, you should make an appointment to see one of our Media Law Solicitors. Please contact us on (02) 9233 4048 or email info@navado.com.au. 

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