Is Contempt of Court a Felony in Florida?
In Florida, contempt of court is a serious offense that can have severe consequences. But is it a felony? In this article, we will delve into the world of contempt of court in Florida and answer this question.
What is Contempt of Court?
Before we dive into the felony aspect, let’s define what contempt of court is. Contempt of court is the act of disobeying or disrespecting a court’s authority, order, or judgment. This can include actions such as:
• Refusing to obey a court order or subpoena
• Disrupting a court proceeding
• Disrespecting a judge or court officer
• Refusing to provide information or evidence requested by the court
Types of Contempt of Court in Florida
Florida recognizes two types of contempt of court:
- Civil Contempt: This type of contempt is used to enforce a court order or judgment. For example, if a party fails to comply with a court order to pay child support, they can be held in civil contempt.
- Criminal Contempt: This type of contempt is used to punish a party for disobedience or disrespect towards the court. For example, if a party intentionally disrupts a court proceeding, they can be held in criminal contempt.
Is Contempt of Court a Felony in Florida?
Now, let’s answer the question: is contempt of court a felony in Florida? The answer is no, contempt of court is not a felony in Florida. However, the consequences of being found in contempt of court can be severe.
Consequences of Contempt of Court in Florida
The consequences of being found in contempt of court in Florida can include:
• Fine: A fine of up to $1,000
• Imprisonment: Up to 60 days in jail
• Combination of Fine and Imprisonment: A combination of both fine and imprisonment
Criminal Contempt as a Felony
While contempt of court itself is not a felony, criminal contempt can be charged as a felony in certain circumstances. For example:
• Felony Criminal Contempt: If a party is found guilty of criminal contempt and the court finds that the contempt was committed with the intent to intimidate or coerce the court or a party, it can be charged as a felony.
Table: Contempt of Court in Florida
| Type of Contempt | Definition | Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| Civil Contempt | Disobedience of a court order or judgment | Fine, imprisonment, or combination of both |
| Criminal Contempt | Disrespect or disobedience towards the court | Fine, imprisonment, or combination of both |
| Felony Criminal Contempt | Criminal contempt committed with intent to intimidate or coerce the court or a party | Up to 5 years in prison, fine, or both |
Conclusion
In conclusion, contempt of court is not a felony in Florida, but the consequences of being found in contempt of court can be severe. It is essential to understand the different types of contempt of court and the consequences of being found in contempt. If you are facing a contempt of court charge, it is crucial to seek the advice of an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the legal process.
Additional Resources
- Florida Statutes: Contempt of Court
- Florida Rules of Civil Procedure: Contempt of Court
- Florida Rules of Criminal Procedure: Contempt of Court
By understanding the laws and consequences of contempt of court in Florida, you can better protect your rights and ensure that your legal matters are handled efficiently and effectively.
