Los Angeles Contempt of Court Lawyers
Defending Los Angeles Residents Facing Contempt of Court Allegations
In the legal landscape of Los Angeles, respecting court authority and proceedings is vital to avoid exacerbating your legal troubles. Contempt of court is a matter that cannot be taken lightly, as it directly challenges the integrity of the judicial system.
At Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, we are dedicated to helping criminal defendants facing contempt of court charges protect their due process rights. Since 1994, we have dedicated our practice to upholding the principles of justice and defending individuals accused of contempt of court. With a proven track record and a team of accomplished Los Angeles criminal attorneys, we have managed some of the most challenging, high-profile, and celebrity defendant cases.
Call us today at (213) 688-0460 for a confidential consultation. We’re here to protect your rights.
What Is Contempt of Court?
Contempt of court is a legal concept defined under California Penal Code Section 166. It encompasses actions that demonstrate disrespect for or undermine the authority of a court. Per California Penal Code Section 166, contempt occurs when an individual engages in any of the following acts:
- Disrupting court proceedings: Behaviors that disrupt or interfere with the orderly conduct of court proceedings, such as loud outbursts, disruptions, or disturbances within the courtroom.
- Disobeying court orders: Failing to comply with court orders, including directives related to child custody, visitation, payment of support, or restraining orders.
- Disrespectful conduct: Displaying disrespectful behavior or language toward the court, judges, or court personnel, which includes offensive gestures, derogatory remarks, or contemptuous actions.
Understanding contempt of court involves differentiating between two main categories: criminal contempt and civil contempt, as outlined in California Code of Civil Procedure 1211:
- Criminal contempt: Criminal contempt refers to actions that are viewed as a direct challenge to the authority of the court. It involves willful and deliberate acts intended to disrupt proceedings or show disrespect for the court’s authority. Penalties for criminal contempt may include fines, probation, or even imprisonment.
- Civil contempt: Civil contempt arises when an individual fails to comply with court orders or judgments typically related to ongoing cases, such as child custody or spousal support disputes. The primary objective of civil contempt is to compel compliance with court orders. Sanctions may include fines, compensatory measures, or imprisonment, but the focus is on motivating compliance rather than punishment.
Behaviors Leading to Contempt Charges
Contempt charges can result from various behaviors, including but not limited to:
- Outbursts or disruptions during court proceedings.
- Refusal to adhere to court orders, such as failing to pay child support or violating restraining orders.
- Contemptuous and disrespectful behavior directed at the court, judges, or court personnel.
- Failure to appear in court when required.
- Attempts to influence or tamper with witnesses or evidence.
It’s essential to understand that contempt of court cases can have serious legal consequences, and individuals facing such charges should seek legal counsel to protect their rights and navigate the legal process effectively.
Defending Against Contempt Charges
Defending against contempt of court charges necessitates a strategic approach and a comprehensive grasp of the legal process. Here are three alternative defense strategies to consider:
- Establishing misunderstanding or miscommunication: If you’re accused of contemptuous behavior, you can defend yourself by showing that you had a valid reason to believe that your actions didn’t break any court orders or rules. This strategy emphasizes your lack of intent to commit contemptuous acts.
- Demonstrating changed circumstances: Changed circumstances beyond your control may be a valid defense if you are unable to comply with a court order or directive.
- Substantiating compliance efforts: To show your compliance with court orders, document your efforts and any obstacles faced in meeting the requirements.
Legal representation is essential in contempt cases. Competent lawyers can create a defense tailored to your case, ensuring your due process rights are upheld and increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
Consult Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP for Top-Tier Representation
When your rights and freedom are at stake, it’s imperative to seek the assistance of seasoned legal professionals. Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP boasts a strong track record of successfully representing individuals facing contempt of court allegations. Our Los Angeles attorneys possess the qualifications and experience to handle these intricate cases effectively.
Call Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP today at (213) 688-0460 for a confidential consultation to discuss your contempt of court case.
Contact Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP Today
Phone: (213) 688-0460 
Fax: (213) 624-1942
Recent Case Results
- Complete Dismissal of Molestation Charges
Attorney Mark Werksman’s 29 year old client was falsely accused of molesting two neighborhood children and was subsequently charged with felony child molestation, with a significant prison sentence hanging over his head should he be convicted. Instead, at the preliminary hearing Werksman was able to convince the court to grant his client a complete dismissal of any charges. - Decision Set Aside
Client, a college student in a faulty Title IX case, was awarded $130,000 in attorney fees. - Probation with No Jail Time for Drug Money Laundering Charge
Wilmington man accused in New York federal court of laundering drug money through the sale of laptop computers. Mark was able to get the case transferred to federal court in Los Angeles, where he convinced the United States Attorney to reduce the charges. His client was sentenced to probation with no jail time on a misdemeanor conviction.
