If you have been arrested for contempt of court, it is critical that you quickly retain an experienced criminal defense attorney in Fort Lauderdale to protect your interests.  A criminal defense attorney in Fort Lauderdale can provide competent legal representation to defend your rights.

Contempt of court is defined under Florida law as the refusal to obey a legal order, decree or mandate by the judge.  Contempt of court can occur if a person fails to appear in court when he or she was required to, directly abiding by a condition of the court or refusing to follow the court’s order, among other things.  Contempt of court can also be based on the defendant’s conduct in court.

Contempt of court may be considered direct or indirect contempt.  Direct criminal contempt of court occurs when the contempt occurs in front of the judge, such as the defendant cursing in court.  Indirect criminal contempt of court occurs when the act of contempt did not occur in front of the judge, such as concealing evidence in a case to prevent law enforcement from seizing it.

Every court is given the authority under federal law to punish acts of contempt whether they are direct or indirect forms of contempt.  Contempt of court can result in a fine up to $500 and a maximum term of imprisonment of 12 months.  Before a person is sentenced to contempt of court, he or she can present a defense as to why he or she acted in the manner that rose to the contempt of court charges.

If you are facing contempt of court charges, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney like Scott Saul for assistance.