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 Alabama, contempt of court encompasses actions that disobey or show disrespect towards the court's authority. This can include failure to comply with court orders, disrupting court proceedings, or any act that undermines the court's ability to administer justice. Alabama law distinguishes between civil and criminal contempt. Civil contempt is typically used to compel compliance with a court order, such as paying child support or alimony, and may result in fines or imprisonment until the order is followed. Criminal contempt, on the other hand, is punitive and addresses actions that disrespect the court or obstruct justice, such as failing to appear when summoned or direct defiance in the courtroom. Criminal contempt can result in fines, imprisonment, or both, and is intended to preserve the court's authority and punish the disobedient party. The specific procedures and penalties for contempt are outlined in the Alabama Rules of Civil Procedure and the Alabama Code.