Rule 1-16. Summary Criminal Contempt

Misbehavior or misconduct in the court's presence causing an obstruction to the orderly administration of justice shall be summary criminal contempt, and may be summarily adjudicated and punished by fine or imprisonment, or both. Prior to any finding of guilt, the judicial authority shall inform the defendant of the charges against him or her and inquire as to whether the defendant has any cause to show why he or she should not be adjudged guilty of summary criminal contempt by presenting evidence of acquitting or mitigating circumstances. Upon an adjudication, the judicial authority shall immediately impose sentence of not more than $100, or six months imprisonment, or both for each contumacious act. Execution of any sentence during the pendency of a trial or hearing may be deferred to the close of proceedings.

Committee Notes

(Amended June 28, 1999, to take effect Jan. 1, 2000.) (P.B. 1978-1997, Sec. 988.) (Amended June 28, 1999, to